Unfortunately, there’s plenty that needs to be done following an auto accident. While the entire ordeal may leave you feeling stressed and frustrated, it’s important you avoid making mistakes that can derail your claim. Let Jesse Gonzalez and his team at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys provide you with 5 do’s and don’ts following a car accident.
The Do’s
Do Call the Police
No matter how minor the accident may seem, you need to call the police. The police will help to sort out the situation and create the accident report you will need for your insurance claim.
Always remember, documentation can save you from a bad situation when it comes to your word against the other driver’s.
Do Go to the Doctor
Even small injuries can become bigger problems down the road. In some instances, the true effects might not be felt for days until after the accident. Make sure to visit a doctor after an accident.
Do Gather All the Information You Can
If you are not severely injured and are safely able to do so, get as much information as possible. Collect the other driver’s contact and insurance information, take photos of the scene, photos of the damage to the vehicles and even the road conditions. If there are any witnesses, ask for the names and contact information so that you can get a statement from them.
Do Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Tell them the basics of the incident and nothing more. All the information will be available to them in time.
Do Hire an Attorney
If you are injured in the car accident, make sure to seek out an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you recover damages.
The Don’ts
Don’t Stop Attending Your Medical Appointments
You need to attend every appointment that you are scheduled for. If your condition gets worse because you stopped treatment, this can greatly damage your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Don’t Compromise the Crash Site
Everything has to remain as it was at the moment of the crash. Both vehicles need to remain at the scene of the accident and neither should be moved unless necessary for your safety.
Don’t Mishandle Gathering Evidence
Never throw away evidence. Also, waiting too long to ask for statements from witnesses can affect the legitimacy of their testimony (individuals can have spotty memory).
Finally, taking pictures is important but don’t post them on your social media accounts, period.
Don’t Tell Your Insurer Anything You Don’t Need To
Never admit fault or give details about the incident that they can retrieve on their own. This includes making any recorded statements before consulting with an attorney.
Don’t Accept a Settlement Without Representation
Taking a quick settlement without consulting with a personal injury attorney can hurt you in the long run.
Want more legal guidance? Visit www.jgonzalezlawfirm.com to learn more about your legal options following a car accident.
