Being involved in an auto accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Aside from dealing with the initial shock and any injuries that may result immediately after an accident, victims and parties involved may encounter days, weeks, or months of difficulties trying to deal with the aftermath.
Whatever the case may be and regardless of the type of accident, there are always certain things you should remember to do and avoid in order to protect yourself and your right to compensation.
Having recovered over $500 million in compensation for clients since 1997, our Las Vegas car accident lawyers have a great deal of experience helping auto accident victims through difficult times.
The list below has been compiled to help you avoid some of the most common mistakes people make after auto accidents and the problems they can create.
1. Not Calling the Police
Far too many people forget or choose not to call the police, which can negatively impact their personal injury case if they choose to file one. Police reports are objective records of an incident made by a third, and they can be used to ensure that other drivers or witnesses don’t provide false information.
Keep in mind never to admit fault when discussing the accident with police, as there may be factors at play you do not know about.
2. Forgetting to Exchange Information
It is crucially important to exchange all information with other drivers and witnesses. No matter how minor an accident may appear at first, you want to make sure that you collect all contact and insurance information, as injuries may develop later.
Make sure to collect the following information: contact information of other drivers and witnesses, driver’s license and license plate numbers, insurance company name, insurance policy numbers, make and model of involved vehicles.
3. Not Getting Medical Attention
In many cases, the initial shock of an accident can make it difficult for victims to fully understand the extent of their injuries. Other times, injuries may not develop until some time passes. This is why it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible after the accident of when you feel pain.
Not only can this protect your physically, the medical bills can serve as proof of your injuries should you file a personal claim later on.
4. Not Gathering Evidence
Never rely on others to secure evidence after an auto accident. If you are able to do so, try to find any witnesses and collect their information. Taking pictures or videos of the accident scene, property damage, and any visible injuries is also a good idea.
5. Trusting Insurance Companies
Soon after an accident, you will likely be in contact with the other driver’s insurance company. Be warned, however, that insurance companies are in business to collect premiums not pay victims.
Be careful of insurance companies offering to settlement claims quickly or avoid paying you at all. Also understand that you don’t have to give a recorded statement and that you can request the help of a personal injury lawyer at any time.
Avoiding these five mistakes can greatly help your case should a personal injury claim prove to be in your best interests. Of course, the best thing you can do to protect your rights is to seek help from an experienced auto accident attorney at soon as possible. At Shook & Stone, our legal team is available to immediately review your case and see how we can help. Call us at (702) 570-0000 or fill out the form for a free consultation.
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