It’s very important to be prepared for the possibility of a car accident as you may never know when you will find yourself in that position. What you do or not do after a car accident can have an impact on the outcome of your case.
According to California car accident lawyer Emery Ledger of The Ledger Law Firm, you should avoid these common mistakes that people make after being involved in an accident.
Mistake #1: Not making a police report
Often when someone is involved in a minor traffic accident, they opt not to file a police report because they in a hurry and can’t wait for the police officer to arrive. Or they might think it is unnecessary because there was no much damage to the vehicles and the people.
However, a police report can be very useful if the other driver was at fault. As such, a police statement that suggests that the other driver was at fault can be used as a proof of negligence on the part of the other driver.
Mistake #2: Not getting witness contact information
Some think that witnesses are not necessary as it was obvious who was at fault. Or they may assume that the witness information will be recorded on the police report by default.
While the police statement may include witness information, you cannot count on the police officer to have gathered that information. Furthermore, even if you are certain that the other driver was at fault, an objective third party can do nothing but help your case if the other driver denies fault down the road.
Mistake #3: Not seeing a doctor immediately after the accident
Many people would go home after being involved in the accident because they do not feel that they were hurt badly and did not need to go to a hospital. While this is a typical reaction to an accident, you may have damages that you are unaware of or injuries that will feel much worse later.
You may also be making your lawyer’s job harder by not seen a doctor immediately. Your lawyer will need to show that any injuries you have are directly related to the accident. The closer in time that you are evaluated and diagnosed with your injuries, the easier it will be to prove that they are the result of the accident.
Mistake #4: Talking to the other driver’s insurance company
Many people think that it can’t hurt to accept the call from the other driver’s insurance company. Some people mistakenly believe that they are even obligated to talk to them.
However, you can easily say something that they may try to use against you in the court.
Remember that the person contacting you defends the interests of the other driver, so to be safe it’s better not to talk to them and not to give them any chance to substantiate another version of events.
Mistake #5: Not seeking the advice of an experienced car accident lawyer
If the worst happens and you find yourself in a car accident that you believe was someone else’s fault, then seek the advice and guidance of an experienced a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
If you would like a free detailed evaluation of your California car accident case, please contact California car accident lawyer Emery Ledger of The Ledger Law Firm Toll Free at (888) 966-9203 or visit the firm online at www.ledgerlaw.com.