Imagine you’re driving through Alpharetta on a sunny afternoon, anticipating an afternoon of shopping at North Point Mall, when another car suddenly runs a red light and crashes into your vehicle. Your mind races as you try to process what just happened. Then the adrenaline kicks in, and you’re hit by several questions at once:
- What happened?
- How badly am I hurt?
- What should I do next?
During moments like these, it’s easy to make assumptions or errors that could complicate your recovery as well as jeopardize your ability to file a personal injury claim. In this blog, the Alpharetta car accident lawyers at Horst Shewmaker, LLC outline the most common mistakes made after an auto accident and how to steer clear of them.
Mistake #1: Admitting Fault
One of the most common post-accident errors is admitting fault at the scene. Even if you think you were responsible for the collision, it’s crucial not to say so to the negligent driver, the police, or witnesses. Admitting fault can have severe legal consequences and affect your insurance claim. Instead, provide factual information without offering opinions on what caused the accident.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Stick To The Facts: When speaking to the police or the at-fault driver, provide only the necessary information, such as your name, contact details, and insurance information. Avoid discussing the details of the traffic accident or how you think it happened. This approach helps to prevent any statements that could be misconstrued as admitting fault.
- Let The Investigation Determine Fault: Leave the determination of fault to the police and insurance companies. They will investigate the auto accident and make an objective assessment based on the evidence gathered. This ensures that fault is assigned fairly and based on all available information.
Mistake #2: Not Getting Medical Attention
Another critical mistake accident victims make is not seeking medical attention immediately after a motor vehicle collision. Even if you aren’t in pain, certain accident injuries might not manifest symptoms right away. Delaying medical treatment can not only jeopardize your health but also weaken your legal claim. Gaps in treatment can often be a death blow to recovering compensation following a motor vehicle wreck.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Get Checked By A Medical Professional: Visit a doctor as soon as possible after a motor vehicle accident, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not show symptoms immediately.
- Follow Up On Treatment: If you are prescribed a treatment plan, follow it diligently. This not only aids your recovery but also provides documentation of your injuries for legal purposes.
Mistake #3: Not Consulting a Car Accident Lawyer
Many people underestimate the importance of consulting a personal injury lawyer after an automobile accident. Without legal advice, you might not be aware of your rights and could end up accepting a financial settlement that is far less than what you deserve.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer Promptly: Reach out to a personal injury attorney soon after the accident. An experienced lawyer with a successful record can provide immediate guidance on the necessary steps to take so that you do not make any mistakes that could harm your case. They will also help you understand your rights and the financial compensation you may be entitled to.
- Choose An Experienced Attorney: Select a lawyer who has extensive experience handling car accident cases. They will be familiar with the tactics insurance companies use and can negotiate assertively on your behalf. If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, they can take your case to trial to secure maximum compensation.
Mistake #4: Failing to Document the Accident Scene
Proper documentation of the accident scene is crucial for supporting your accident claim. Many people neglect to gather sufficient evidence at the scene, which can be detrimental when proving fault or the extent of compensatory damages.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Take Photos: Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Witness Information: If there are witnesses, get their names and contact details. Their statements can be valuable for your case.
- Keep Records: Save all related documents, such as police reports, medical bills, medical records, repair estimates, and communication with insurance companies. If you’ve suffered emotional distress, keep a journal outlining how the accident impacted you.
Mistake #5: Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation
Insurance adjusters might seem helpful, but their primary goal is to minimize your payout. That does not make them bad people. They are just doing their job. Speaking to them without legal advice can lead to statements that could be used against you. Insurance companies record virtually every call whether they inform you of this fact or not. A misspoken word or something taken out of context can have a seriously negative impact on your case.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Limit Your Communication: Provide only basic information to the insurance adjuster and avoid giving recorded statements without consulting your lawyer.
- Let an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Handle It: Direct all insurance communication to your car accident attorney. They can handle negotiations and ensure you don’t inadvertently harm your claim.
Mistake #6: Not Reporting the Accident
In Georgia, you are legally required to report an accident to the local police, sheriff, or the Georgia State Patrol if it causes property damage exceeding $500 or results in any injuries or fatalities. Some drivers might think it’s unnecessary to report minor accidents, but not doing so can lead to complications later.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Notify The Police: Call the police (or 9-1-1) immediately after the crash and file a report. The official documentation from the accident investigation can support your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
- Inform Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Failure to do so could result in denial of your claim for failure to provide notice.
Mistake #7: Settling Too Quickly
In the aftermath of an accident, you might be tempted to accept a quick settlement offer from the insurance company. However, initial offers are often attempts at a low-ball settlement, and if you develop problems later on, you will not be able to claim medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial compensation.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Be Patient: Wait until you have a full understanding of your injuries and the long-term impact before accepting an accident settlement.
- Consult Your Lawyer: Have your attorney review any settlement offers to make sure they are fair and cover your medical expenses, lost wages, loss of companionship, and other compensatory damages.
Mistake #8: Not Understanding What Happens If Someone Else Crashes Your Car
If your son was driving your car and had an accident, it’s crucial to know your liabilities and responsibilities. Parents often worry about how this affects their insurance as well as any potential financial implications.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Make sure your auto insurance policy covers your son while driving your car. With permissive use car insurance, your policy is usually the primary source of coverage, regardless of who is sitting in the driver’s seat.
- Discuss With Your Insurer: Inform your insurance company about the situation to understand how claims will be processed and what liabilities you might face.
Take the Right Steps After a Car Accident by Calling an Alpharetta Personal Injury Lawyer
Avoiding these common post-accident mistakes can help protect your rights and make sure you receive the fair compensation you deserve. Always seek medical attention, consult a lawyer, and avoid making hasty decisions. By staying informed and prepared, you can handle the aftermath of a car accident more effectively.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Alpharetta, don’t wait to seek professional legal advice. Contact Horst Shewmaker today for a free initial consultation. We can help you avoid costly mistakes and achieve the best possible resolution for your case. To learn more, call 404-400-1175.
