Car accidents can be a traumatic and stressful experience but it's important to remember that your actions following the accident can have a significant impact on the outcome of any legal proceedings that may follow. We’ve seen many clients make mistakes after a collision that have impacted their ability to receive the compensation they deserve.
Failing To Gather Enough Evidence
Evidence can be critical in proving fault in a car accident. After ensuring your safety, it is important to gather evidence after a collision. This includes taking photos of the scene of the accident, writing down any witnesses’ names and contact information, and obtaining a copy of the police report. If you're unable to gather enough evidence at the scene, it can be increasingly difficult to prove fault later on.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay after a car accident, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but they can still have serious consequences in the future. Seeking medical attention will also provide you with a record of your injuries, which can be valuable in a legal case.
Admitting Fault
It's natural to want to take responsibility when something goes wrong but it's important to
remember that fault may not always be immediately clear after a car accident. Never admit fault
at the scene of the accident even if you think you may have caused it. Instead, wait for the police and insurance companies to conduct their investigations.
Not Reporting The Accident To Your Insurance Company
If you're involved in a car accident, it's important to report it to your insurance company as soon as possible. This will ensure that your insurance policy is activated and will allow you to receive any benefits you're entitled to under your policy. Failing to report the accident to your insurance company can also impact your ability to receive compensation later on.
Not Keeping Track of Expenses
If you're involved in a car accident, it's important to keep track of any expenses you incur as a result of the accident. This includes medical bills, car repair costs, and any other expenses related to the accident. These records can be important evidence in a legal case, which will directly affect the compensation to which you’re entitled.
Not Consulting A Lawyer
If you're involved in a car accident, it's important to seek the advice of a qualified lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and can ensure that your rights are protected. Lawyers can also help you obtain the compensation you deserve, through legal action or settlement.
Accepting A Settlement Without Legal Advice
If you're offered a settlement following a car accident, it's important to seek the advice of a lawyer before accepting it. This is because settlements may not always be in your best interest and may not fully compensate you for your losses. A lawyer can help you understand the terms of the settlement and can negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome. While accidents do happen, it's important to be mindful of the decisions you make and the actions you take. By avoiding the mistakes outlined in this blog post, you can increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve and ensure that your rights are protected. Do not hesitate to contact us to book your free consultation today if you find yourself involved in a motor vehicle accident.
Published on March 13, 2023
