BELLEVILLE, IL — Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, a personal injury law firm serving the Metro East area, has released a public guide detailing steps to take immediately after a car accident. The guide, published by the firm, aims to help local drivers protect both their health and legal rights during the chaotic moments following a collision.
The guide draws on the firm's experience representing individuals injured in motor vehicle collisions and discusses practical measures that may help preserve evidence and support future legal claims. Hipskind & McAninch has recovered more than $50 million on behalf of clients, including a $20 million recovery involving a fatal rear-end collision and a $2 million settlement arising from a head-on crash.
"An accident can disrupt your life in an instant," said co-founder John Hipskind. "While many people are understandably focused on their recovery, the steps they take at the scene and in the days that follow can affect their ability to pursue compensation. We hope this guide helps people make informed decisions during a difficult time."
The guide emphasizes prioritizing safety and seeking medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as conditions like whiplash and internal injuries may not present symptoms immediately. It advises contacting law enforcement to create an official accident report and providing factual information without speculating about fault.
Documentation of the scene is also critical. The guide recommends exchanging contact, driver's license, and insurance information with all involved parties, and, if safe, photographing vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details. Obtaining witness contact information is also encouraged.
A key point in the guide is the importance of considering legal guidance before speaking with insurance companies. Insurance representatives may request recorded statements or other documentation soon after an accident. Individuals may benefit from understanding their legal rights before providing detailed statements or signing documents.
The guide reflects the firm's approach to educating the public about the legal process following serious accidents. Founding partners John Hipskind and Brady McAninch previously represented corporate defendants, an experience that informs their work on behalf of individuals pursuing personal injury claims.
Hipskind & McAninch represents clients in matters involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and premises liability. The firm also assists clients with navigating insurance claims, legal deadlines, and the process of seeking compensation after an injury. The firm has been recognized by Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40.
