Top 5 Mistakes After an Automobile Accident
Unfortunately, automobile accidents are common in the United States. There are millions reported each year, resulting in a significant number of injuries, fatalities, and legal disputes.
After being involved in an automobile accident, it is vital to be aware of the mistakes that can occur to avoid them. At Lasky Justus Law, we specialize in personal injury and auto accidents, offering expert guidance and support. Our experienced car accident attorneys in Savannah, GA, understand each case’s complexities.
If you have been in a car accident, you should avoid these mistakes:
Mistake #1: Not Calling the Police or Emergency Response Immediately
Contacting law enforcement officers after a car accident is vital. It ensures the safety of everyone involved, documents the accident officially, and helps determine fault. Unfortunately, some hesitate to call the police due to fear or not understanding the process. Instead, it is essential to exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved and file a police report immediately to protect your rights.
If facing resistance, consult a car accident attorney, like us at Lasky Justus Law, for guidance.
Do I have to call the police after a car accident?
While laws may vary from one place to another, it is generally recommended to call the police and file a report for all car accidents. This safeguards your rights and ensures a proper investigation.
Can I file a police report after leaving the scene?
It’s best to file a police report immediately after the accident to establish an official record of what happened. Leaving the scene without reporting the accident can complicate matters and potentially harm your chances of receiving fair compensation.
What if the other driver insists on not involving the police?
If the other driver doesn’t want to involve the police, you should still inform your insurance company and document the accident to protect yourself legally. Consulting an experienced car accident attorney, like us at Lasky Justus Law, can provide invaluable guidance and protect your rights.
Mistake #2: Not Seeking Swift Medical Attention
Seeking immediate medical attention after an accident is crucial for your well-being and legal protection. It helps identify hidden injuries that may worsen over time and establishes a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
Do I need to see a doctor even if I don’t have health insurance?
Yes, you should see a doctor. Providers often have options for billing auto insurance or providing treatment on a lien basis, which delays having to pay for the treatment.
Mistake #3: Admitting Fault or Apologizing
Admitting fault or apologizing after an accident can have legal implications, complicate fault determination, and lead to unnecessary guilt. Instead, avoid discussing fault, don’t take responsibility, and be cautious with your statements.
What should I say to the other driver after an accident?
Exchange necessary information like contact details and insurance information but avoid discussing fault or apologizing.
As apologizing can be seen as an admission of fault. Focus on your safety and information.
When do I have to admit fault in a car accident?
It is the responsibility of insurance companies and the legal system to determine who’s at fault, not yours. Refrain from admitting fault and let these processes determine liability. Consult the attorneys at Lasky Justus Law if you need help.
Mistake #4: Not Documenting the Scene of the Accident
Proper documentation of the accident scene can preserve crucial evidence supporting your claim. This evidence includes the condition of the vehicles, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any other relevant factors.
What does proper documentation of the accident scene help clarify?
Proper documentation of the accident scene helps clarify the sequence of events. It can reconstruct the accident sequence accurately and provide a clearer picture of what happened.
What can proper documentation of the accident scene help establish?
Proper documentation of the accident scene can help establish liability and prove fault, especially if the other party disputes your account of the accident.
What should I do if I missed important details while documenting the scene?
Try to recall important details as soon as possible and document them later. When in doubt, consult with legal professionals for guidance on how to proceed.
Here’s how you can avoid the mistake of not documenting the scene:
Take photographs and videos from different angles to capture every detail possible. This includes everything from the position of the vehicles to any damages, landmarks, traffic signals, and road conditions.
Obtain contact information from the other driver(s) involved and any witnesses present. Their statements may be crucial in proving who is at fault and supporting your claim.
Don’t solely rely on the police report, as it may not accurately reflect your perspective. Use it as a reference but ensure that you also gather your own evidence.
Mistake #5: Not Contacting an Experienced Accident Attorney
Car Accident Attorneys are experts in car accident laws, insurance claims, liability, and settlements. They ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Many people try to handle their case on their own and skip contacting an attorney after a car accident, assuming their insurance company will handle everything.. However, without legal representation, they risk making mistakes that hurt their claim.
The experienced accident attorneys at Lasky Justus Law will negotiate with insurance companies to get you the settlement you deserve. We gather evidence, assess damages, and build a strong case on your behalf.
When should I contact a car accident attorney?
Contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. The earlier you seek legal representation, the better. This allows your attorney to gather evidence, assess damages, and protect your rights from the very beginning.
What should I look for when choosing an attorney?
Consider their experience in handling similar cases, their track record of success, and their commitment to communication and client satisfaction. Many law firms, like Lasky Justus Law, offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and determine if they are the right fit for you.
Avoid Costly Mistakes
Don’t risk your claim. Contact Lasky Justus Law immediately if you’ve been injured in an automobile accident. Maximize your settlement and protect yourself with the representation you can trust.
