Common Legal Mistakes People Make After an Accident


A car accident is traumatic. Over three million people suffer from physical injuries and mental trauma, including PTSD and disorientation after car accidents.

It’s no wonder that many aren’t in the right frame of mind to know what to do next. However, the immediate moments after an accident are crucial and absent-minded mistakes can lead to dire consequences.

Here are some mistakes people usually make after getting into an accident:

1. Leaving the Scene

This is an understandable mistake, but one that makes you look guilty. It’s a crime to leave the scene of an accident, and it gives the authorities a reason to believe that you were guilty.

If there was another car involved in the accident, then the driver can claim that you were responsible for it, and you won’t be there to defend yourself.

2. Admitting Fault

You may not be aware, but apologizing for the accident after it happens can be interpreted as you accepting responsibility for it. That may or may not be true, but your best course of action is to let the authorities investigate and reach a conclusion.

It’s only human to want to comfort the other party after an accident, but in this case, your politeness may be used against you.

3. Not Calling the Police

You should always call the police as soon as you can. They can help de-escalate the scene, collect evidence, and determining the cause of the accident.

If you don't call them, then the evidence won't be collected, and the crash report won't be prepared. This can lead to issues in settlement claims.

Additionally, if the other party decides to take it to court, your auto accident lawyer won’t have the facts and evidence to back you up.


4. Skipping the Doctor

You may feel normal after the accident, but accidents like these have the potential to leave lingering effects behind, especially if a concussion was involved.

The doctor's report is also important in your settlement claim later on when it comes to court trials and discussions with the insurance company.

Visit the doctor as soon as possible to get a record of your physical and mental condition after the accident. Even waiting a few days can lead to issues in the case later on.

Should you ever be involved in a car accident and need a car accident attorney in Little Rock, get in touch with Lisa Douglas's office.

As your accident lawyer in Little Rock, she will first provide you with a free consultation and then move forward in the pursuit of a fair trial. Visit her website for further details.

 

Disclaimer: Information in this article is provided for general informational purposes. It may not reflect current laws in your region or state. It isn’t intended to substitute legal counsel.

 

 

 

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