BELLEVILLE, IL — Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, a personal injury law firm serving Belleville and the Metro East area, has released a public guide detailing essential steps to take after a car accident. The guide, based on the firm's extensive experience representing individuals injured in motor vehicle collisions, aims to help local drivers preserve evidence and support potential legal claims. The firm 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.
Co-founder John Hipskind emphasized the importance of immediate actions. "An accident can disrupt your life in an instant. 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," he said.
The guide outlines several critical steps. First, prioritize safety and seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, conditions such as whiplash or internal injuries may not present symptoms right away. Second, report the accident to law enforcement to obtain an official accident report. Provide factual information but avoid speculating about fault. Third, document the scene thoroughly: exchange contact, driver's license, and insurance information with all involved parties; photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details; and obtain witness contact information if safe to do so. Finally, consider seeking legal guidance before speaking with insurance companies. Insurance representatives may request recorded statements or documents soon after an accident, and understanding legal rights beforehand can be beneficial.
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 handles cases involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, premises liability, and other negligence-related claims. The firm assists clients with navigating insurance claims, legal deadlines, and the process of seeking compensation after an injury.
Hipskind & McAninch, LLC is a personal injury law firm serving Belleville, St. Louis, and communities throughout the Metro East. The firm has been recognized by Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40. For more information, visit Hipskind & McAninch.
