Being in a car accident can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when emotions are running high. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, your actions in the aftermath can greatly impact the outcome of your personal injury case and your ability to receive fair compensation. Unfortunately, many drivers make common mistakes that can harm their chances of recovering compensation from the accident.
In the chaotic moments right after a crash, it’s easy to say or do the wrong thing unintentionally. However, avoiding these common mistakes is essential to protecting your rights and financial recovery. Things like failing to gather evidence at the accident scene, not seeking immediate medical attention, or speaking too freely with the other driver’s insurance company can lead to severe legal consequences. In some cases, these errors can even undermine a successful lawsuit.
In this article, we’ll highlight the most common mistakes people make after a car accident and how you can avoid them. Read on for tips from the Las Vegas car accident lawyers at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys.
1. Not Calling the Police
After any auto accident, especially one involving injuries or property damage, contacting law enforcement is important. Nevada law requires you to notify the police for accidents resulting in injury or death. Police officers will:
- Secure the accident scene
- Create an official accident report
- Gather witness statements
- Document initial findings
This police report becomes vital evidence for your car insurance company and any potential personal injury lawsuit.
2. Leaving the Scene
Fleeing the accident scene is a serious offense with severe legal consequences, regardless of who’s at fault. If you’re involved in a car crash:
- Pull over to a safe location
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Wait for law enforcement to arrive
- Document the accident scene
3. Admitting Fault
One of the most common mistakes is apologizing or admitting fault at the accident scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could be used against you by insurance adjusters when seeking compensation. Let the legal process determine fault through:
- Official investigations
- Evidence gathering
- Expert analysis
4. Failing to Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence is crucial for your legal case. If you’re able, make sure to:
- Take photos of vehicle damage
- Document road signs and conditions
- Collect witness statements and contact details
- Record any visible injuries
- Note the events leading to the accident
This evidence helps your car accident attorney build a strong personal injury case.
5. Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often make quick, lowball settlement offers. Don’t fall for this tactic. Instead:
- Consult with a car accident lawyer
- Understand the full extent of your injuries
- Calculate all medical bills and non-economic damages
- Negotiate for fair compensation
6. Delaying Legal Action
Time is critical in the legal system. In Nevada, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the car accident. Waiting too long can:
- Limit your options for financial recovery
- Make gathering evidence more difficult
- Potentially bar you from seeking compensation
7. Posting on Social Media
While it’s tempting to share details about your auto accident online, social media posts can severely undermine your case. Insurance adjusters may use your posts to:
- Question the severity of your injuries
- Dispute your medical treatment needs
- Challenge your claim for damages
8. Neglecting Medical Care
Following through with medical treatment is essential for both your well-being and your legal case. Make sure to:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Follow your medical professional’s advice
- Keep records of all medical bills
Failing to get proper medical care can negatively impact your health and your ability to recover damages.
9. Not Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal maze after a car accident can be challenging. An experienced car accident lawyer will:
- Protect your best interests
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Ensure you avoid common mistakes
- Fight for maximum compensation
Don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation with skilled lawyers who can guide you through the civil court process and help you obtain a successful lawsuit outcome.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney in Las Vegas Help?
After a car accident, you need someone on your side. A car accident lawyer guides you through the legal process and helps you avoid common mistakes that could hurt your case. Here’s what our team at THE702FIRM does for you:
- Gathers Evidence: We collect police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos. This creates a strong foundation for your personal injury case.
- Handles Insurance Companies: We deal with insurance adjusters, so you don’t have to. Many people hurt their claims by giving recorded statements or admitting fault to the other driver’s insurance company.
- Gets You Proper Medical Care: Your health comes first. We make sure you get medical treatment for your car accident injuries. Good medical records support your claim for fair compensation.
- Calculates All Damages: We look at medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. We also consider non-economic damages like pain and suffering to seek full financial recovery.
- Negotiates a Fair Settlement: Insurance companies often lowball offers. We fight for what you deserve. If needed, we’re ready to take your personal injury lawsuit to civil court.
Don’t face the legal process alone. Even in minor accidents, what you say and do matters. Simple mistakes like not filing an accident report or failing to exchange information with the other party can impact your case.
At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, our Las Vegas car accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate your claim and work relentlessly to pursue all possible avenues for the compensation you need. To get started with your case, contact us anytime, 24/7, for a free consultation.
