After a car accident, it is important to remember to stay calm and take care of the necessary steps to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Common mistakes after a car accident include not calling the police, not exchanging insurance information with the other party, not taking pictures of the scene of the accident, not seeking medical attention if necessary, and not filing an accident report.
It is important to heed basic advice following an accident, as mitigating mistakes can have serious implications down the line. Many common missteps can be easily avoided with some foresight and caution.
It is of the utmost importance to contact emergency services following a traffic accident. In many jurisdictions, not calling the police may be considered a criminal offense that can lead to fines and potential jail time. Furthermore, failing to call the police will leave you without an official report of the incident, which could potentially hinder your ability to file claims for medical bills or property damage in court.
Additionally, if there are any witnesses present at the scene of an accident who would be willing to testify on behalf of either party involved in a legal proceeding, their testimony may become invalidated if there is no record from law enforcement about what occurred during the event.
It is essential to record evidence following a traffic accident to protect one’s interests. Taking pictures or videos of the scene, including any damage done to vehicles and injuries sustained by passengers, can be extremely beneficial if legal proceedings occur later on. This visual documentation can help establish fault for the incident and potentially provide more accurate accounts than those based on verbal testimony alone.
Furthermore, common mistakes after a car accident include individuals involved in a car crash not taking pictures or videos immediately after the accident and keeping them somewhere safe so that they can be consulted when necessary.
Additionally, it is important that an individual document all conversations with other parties involved after an accident occurs. Common mistakes after a car accident include not getting written records of statements made by witnesses or other drivers that ensure their contact information and recollection can be used in case of a court trial.
Failing to properly capture this evidence could lead to confusion surrounding details such as liability or responsibility for damages done—a mistake which could have dire consequences further down the road when it comes time to seek compensation from responsible parties through court action.
In any accident, it is important to be aware of the potential legal implications before speaking with other parties involved. Common mistakes after a car accident can be admitting fault or apologizing for an incident. This can have drastic consequences if a lawsuit ensues, as these statements can be used against one during a trial.
Therefore, it is essential that individuals refrain from making declarations of liability and instead allow their legal counsel to handle communication with others affected by the event on their behalf. This will ensure that any conversations are conducted in accordance with relevant laws and regulations while protecting one’s interests throughout the proceedings.
It is also wise to keep in mind that other common mistakes after a car accident include admitting fault to authorities, which can potentially impede insurance claims due to policies that include policyholders not admitting guilt or accepting blame for the accident.
Furthermore, being too quick to take responsibility for an incident could lead to criminal charges depending on the severity of damage done or injury caused. For this reason, seeking experienced legal advice should always take precedence over discussing matters such as culpability with other involved parties after an accident has occurred.
At Torgenson Law, you are an individual with the right to personalized legal representation. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who will stand up and defend your rights in court, if need be.
Our entire staff is committed to ensure you receive the care and attention your case deserves, and we’ll fight to get you compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact us today for your free consultation.
John Torgenson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame. John has a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, including an $8.25 million recovery for a gunshot injury victim. His expertise has earned him AVVO ratings and recognition as a Super Lawyer.
John is also a sought-after lecturer on personal injury law, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and aspiring attorneys. Beyond his legal practice, John is an avid golfer and actively supports organizations like the Military Assistance Mission, Arizona School for the Arts, Page Balloon Regatta, University of Arizona Foundation, Junior Achievement of Arizona, and the Tim Huff Pro Bono Golf Classic.
Passionate about advocating for injury victims, John dedicates his career to battling insurance companies and corporate interests, ensuring that the rights of those who are hurt are vigorously defended.
