What Are the Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Crash Injury?

The aftermath of a car crash can be a confusing and overwhelming time. You’re probably injured, your car may be totaled, and you’re wondering where you should turn and what to do next.

After an accident, it’s easy to make mistakes that could sink your case. If you plan to file suit for damages, learn about these seven mistakes to avoid from an experienced car accident attorney.

1. Fleeing the Scene of the Accident

Immediately after an accident, your first instinct might be to hop back in your car and flee as far and fast as you can. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.

In Florida, it’s illegal to run from the scene of an accident. You could be charged with a misdemeanor and face a fine of up to $500. You might also face the possibility of jail time, depending on your record.

2. Not Documenting the Accident Scene

Many accident victims don’t think to document the accident scene right after a crash. It only occurs to them afterward, but it’s too late by then.

Preserving the accident scene can be very helpful for your car crash lawyer. They can use the evidence you’ve gathered to negotiate a settlement offer.

Take pictures of your car and the other driver’s vehicle, as well as any road obstructions, blocked street signs, tire skid marks, and anything else that catches your attention.

3. Admitting Fault

It’s human nature to apologize when we think we’ve done something wrong. However, telling the other driver you’re sorry could be taken as an admission of guilt even if you’re not the one who caused the crash.

It may be tough to avoid the temptation, but don’t apologize. When talking to the other driver, or the insurance company, keep a level head and stick to the facts.

4. Failing To See a Doctor

Even if you think you’re unhurt after an accident, it’s wise to see a doctor anyway. Doing so gives you a record of treatment, and your car crash attorney can use that to connect the accident with your injuries.

It’s also smart to seek help from medical professionals because you have no idea how badly hurt you might be. Some injuries don’t show up until days after an accident.

5. Saying the Wrong Thing to the Insurance Company

It’s very easy to make mistakes when talking to insurance companies. The insurance adjuster who calls will seem friendly at first. They may ask probing questions and tell you they’re simply trying to gather all the facts.

This can seem fine to you because you simply want to put the accident behind you and move on with your life. But giving information to the insurance company too liberally could have a negative impact on your settlement.

The insurance company will look for any way to reduce what they pay you or even deny your claim. Don’t say anything they could use against you, such as “I had a text message, and it distracted me” or “I was in an argument with my spouse.”

6. Waiting Too Long To File a Personal Injury Claim

Take care not to wait too long before filing your claim. Florida recently reduced the statute of limitations on personal injury claims to two years. If you miss the deadline, the court can dismiss your claim.

7. Not Hiring a Car Crash Lawyer

If you plan to seek damages for your accident, you could use the help of a car crash attorney from Leaser Law Firm, with offices in Plantation, Florida near Miami. For a free consultation with a personal injury attorney, call us at 954-233-3515.