A driver merges into the side of your car on the interstate, pushing you toward the median. You go across into oncoming traffic, where your vehicle gets hit head-on. They have to airlift you from the scene with serious injuries.

You survive, but spend weeks in the hospital. You have severe injuries that may last for the rest of your life. While you just feel happy to be alive at first, you quickly start thinking about the legal steps you need to take to get compensation from the driver who caused the crash in Aurora.

To help you get started, here are five questions you need to ask:

1. What do you remember?

You need to give an account of what happened in the accident. Do you remember the whole crash? If not — it’s a common issue after serious accidents — you need to write down what you do remember. More details may come back to you at a later date.

2. Did you give a statement to anyone else?

You need to look over the statements you gave to the insurance company or the police. How accurate are they? Did you leave anything out? Maybe you did not give a statement at all, considering your condition. What you said or did not say can impact your case.

3. What economic issues did the accident create?

You probably want to start with your medical bills. Those present a clear economic impact. However, don’t stop there. Consider things like lost wages and lost earning capacity. If you can never work again, the total cost of that accident could end up far greater than just your lost wages while you recover.

4. Do you have records of medical treatment?

You need proof that the medical bills actually connect to the accident. Can you show what treatment you needed and what it cost? Do you have any pre-existing conditions? Are you going to need more treatment in the future? Make sure you take good notes and keep all of the documentation you get.

5. Do you know of any witnesses?

You can use witnesses in many areas. Someone may have seen the crash, and they can help establish fault. After that, you may want to talk to coworkers, neighbors or family members who can act as witnesses to the medical treatment you received and how your injuries have affected your life.

These questions can help you get started as you look into the legal rights you have and the steps you need to take to seek financial compensation.