Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, a Belleville-based personal injury law firm, has released a public guide detailing important steps for drivers to take immediately following a motor vehicle collision. The guide aims to help individuals protect both their health and legal rights during the often confusing aftermath of an accident.
The firm, which 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 from a head-on crash—emphasizes that actions taken at the scene and in the days after can significantly impact the ability to pursue compensation.
“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 outlines four key steps. First, prioritize safety and seek medical attention. Drivers should check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Even if injuries do not appear serious, conditions like whiplash and internal injuries may not present symptoms immediately, making medical evaluation crucial.
Second, report the accident to law enforcement to ensure an official accident report is prepared. Those involved should provide factual information but avoid speculating about fault or the cause of the collision.
Third, document the scene by exchanging contact, driver’s license, and insurance information with all parties. If safe, photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details, and obtain contact information for witnesses.
Fourth, consider legal guidance before speaking with insurance companies. Insurance representatives may request recorded statements or documentation soon after an accident. Individuals may benefit from understanding their legal rights before providing detailed statements or signing documents.
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. The firm represents clients in cases involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and premises liability, and assists with navigating insurance claims and legal deadlines.
For leaders in business and technology, the implications of this guide extend beyond individual drivers. As autonomous vehicles and telematics become more prevalent, understanding the legal landscape of accident liability is increasingly important. Companies developing or integrating these technologies should be aware of how evidence preservation and legal procedures impact claims, especially as data from vehicles and devices may become critical evidence. The guide underscores that even in an era of advanced safety features, human actions at the scene remain vital to legal outcomes.
Hipskind & McAninch has been recognized by Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, reflecting their standing in the legal community.
