Six Common Mistakes People Make After a Collision

A car crash can be a traumatic experience that leaves victims shaken and confused. In the aftermath of an accident, it is essential to handle the situation carefully to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation for any damages or injuries incurred.

Unfortunately, many people unknowingly make mistakes that can jeopardize their legal claims. In this article, I am going to highlight the six most common mistakes that I see people make after a car crash and provide guidance on the steps you should take to protect your rights.

1. Failing to Report the Accident to the Authorities: One of the most significant mistakes people make is not reporting the accident to the authorities, especially in minor collisions. Regardless of the accident’s severity, it is crucial to call the police and have them create an official report.This report will serve as essential evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings, providing an objective record of the incident.
2. Admitting Fault or Apologizing: After a car crash, emotions can run high, and it’s natural to want to diffuse tension. However, admitting fault or apologizing at the scene can be detrimental to your legal position.Even if you believe you may be partially at fault, it is essential to avoid making any statements that could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. Stick to factual information when discussing the accident with other parties involved and the authorities.
3. Failing to Gather Evidence: Preserving evidence is crucial for strengthening your case and protecting your rights. Unfortunately, many accident victims fail to collect essential information at the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.Obtain contact information from witnesses and gather the other driver’s details, including their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
4. Delaying Medical Evaluation: Even if you initially feel fine after a car crash, it is essential to seek medical evaluation promptly. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, but a medical professional can identify and document any underlying issues.Delaying medical evaluation not only jeopardizes your health but also weakens your personal injury claim. Insurance companies may argue that the injuries were unrelated to the accident due to the delay in seeking treatment.
5. Settling Too Quickly with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may pressure accident victims into accepting quick settlement offers, often well below the actual value of the claim. Avoid settling too quickly without consulting a personal injury attorney.An experienced lawyer can assess the true extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation needs. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Car accidents can be overwhelming experiences, but it’s crucial to remain calm and take the necessary steps to protect your rights. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can strengthen your legal position and increase the chances of obtaining fair compensation.

Remember, consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the claims process.

But Wait! That’s Only 5 Common Mistakes People Make After a Collision

Forgive the drama of withholding the sixth, but I believe this point is so important that it deserves its own subheading and section.

• The 6^th most common mistake that people make after a car crash is that they don’t call a personal injury attorney for a free consultation.

Even if you make all of the five mistakes listed above, you should still call a personal injury attorney. First of all, every personal injury attorney I know offers free consultations to discuss your case and let you know if it’s worth pursuing. (If someone is trying to charge you for a consultation, run away.)

During this initial meeting, you get to tell your story, share information about your insurance and the other driver’s insurance, and discuss any injuries and medical bills you’re facing. I recommend speaking to at least two different personal injury attorneys before signing up with one.

You want to work with someone who makes you feel heard, and who is good at explaining the process ahead. You also want to make sure that you will be working with an actual attorney throughout the process, rather than an attorney’s assistant.

Second, you may not understand the underlying complexities of your case. In your gut, you may think you don’t have a case, or that there may not be enough insurance involved to cover your losses, but experienced personal injury attorneys know a LOT.

For example, I recently secured $1.4 million for a young woman who was a passenger in an SUV. Because of the nature of the crash, we were able to tap into several sources of insurance that she had not even thought were available. Only a seasoned personal injury attorney can navigate these complex waters for you.

Third, once you sign with a personal injury attorney, the insurance companies can no longer call you and harass you. They must instead speak to your attorney. I find that most clients think this is a huge relief, enabling them to get back to their job, or the healing process from injuries after a car crash.

I hope this article helps underscore the importance of your actions in the immediate moments and days after a car crash. The things you do and the words you say can have a lasting impact on your personal injury case.

However, I want to stress that it is never too late to call a personal injury attorney for a free consultation. If you were the victim in the crash, you likely have a case and you may have no idea who much it’s worth.

I’d love to speak with you! Call or text me today for a free consultation on your car accident case. 303-388-5304