Mistakes People Make After a Car Accident

A car accident is often a traumatic experience for anyone. Although you may already know what steps to take after a car accident, you also need to know what not to do. Steering away from mistakes when filing a claim can help you and your attorney get the most favorable outcome from your case.

The following are common mistakes people make after a car accident.

Failing to Call the Police

Always call the police on the scene when a car accident occurs. Upon arrival, the police officer can gather valuable evidence that can prove helpful to you.

The police prepare a crash report with all the details of your accident. A traffic ticket issued to the other party involved can also be a reliable way to prove that they are at fault.

Unfortunately, many accident victims think they don't need the police's assistance. Without the police, the case becomes your word against the other driver's.

Postponing Medical Attention

In the event of a car accident, always seek medical attention at a hospital or urgent care center. Seek medical attention even if the accident was just a minor fender bender or you seem to have no serious injuries. A doctor may identify injuries you didn't recognize at the time of the accident, including those that require extensive treatment.

A hospital visit is important for your health and wellness and to document your injuries. Documenting your injuries can make filing a personal injury claim easier later on.

When you seek medical assistance from a professional, follow their instructions closely. By not following those instructions, you may not only limit your recovery, but you may not receive the compensation you deserve.

Failing to Gather Evidence

Gathering as much evidence as you can at the scene of the accident is a great way to start your case quickly. In case of serious injuries, medical attention should be your top priority. After medical care, gather all the evidence you can.

You can start by taking the following steps:

• Get witnesses' names and contact information, and ask if they would be willing to speak with you and help with your case. 
• Collect the insurance and contact information for the other driver. You will also need their phone numbers, license plate numbers, and driver's license numbers. They should also provide their car insurance company name and policy number.
• Obtain a copy of the accident report and, if possible, the badge number of the officer on site.
• Take pictures of the accident scene with your phone’s camera. Document the damage to your car and the other car and the position of both vehicles. 

Make sure you don't interfere with police investigations.

Trusting the Insurance Company

Insurance companies may not always align their interests with yours after an accident. Insurers often try to minimize your payout or might try to avoid paying you anything.

Therefore, when talking to the insurance company, give them the most basic information about the accident, and avoid going into too much detail.

Some insurance companies will do what's right for you, but never assume all insurance companies will act in your best interests. Thus, let your lawyer handle insurance companies.

Admitting Fault

Don't admit fault or apologize when discussing the accident with the police or the other driver. When you admit fault, the other driver may hold that against you in the future. The insurance company may hold you responsible for any property damage and bodily injury the other driver sustained.

Also, avoid oversharing details. Your best bet is not to say anything to anyone and let your lawyer do the talking. Instead of trying to handle your accident claim alone, contact an attorney who can help manage your claim. 

If you have been in a car accident, contact us today for an initial consultation on your car accident injury case.