You’re driving in Buckeye, AZ or the West Valley and another vehicle slams into you, perhaps causing you major injury. You know the driver was at fault because you saw them run a red light or stop sign, so you are understandably upset. On the other hand, maybe your memory of the crash is a little hazy and you have doubts about who really caused the accident.
Scenarios like these should at least prompt you to reach out to an experienced car accident attorney so you can evaluate your rights and seek compensation. Conversely, there are several mistakes you should be careful to avoid after your car crash. Gill Law Firm is here to guide you.
Mistake #1: Apologizing For the Accident
It’s in our nature to express sympathy for other people who have been harmed or experienced misfortune, even when we are not the source of it. After a car wreck, therefore, it is quite common for victims to apologize to the other driver or to admit blame for it. You may be tempted to describe what you did right before the accident, a narrative which could be construed as fault on your behalf.
The fact is that you almost never have the full story right after a car crash. For instance, you may have applied the brakes, they failed, and you slammed into another vehicle. But you don’t know that the brake failure was your fault; it could have been due to a manufacturer defect.
Even if you believe you caused the accident, do not accept blame or apologize. In fact, the less you say about the incident the better. Let a Buckeye, AZ personal injury attorney handle communications with the at-fault driver and, later, their insurance company.
Mistake #2: Not Seeking Medical Attention
You should always seek immediate medical attention after being in an accident, regardless of whether you believe you were injured or how badly you think you were hurt. Some conditions do not manifest themselves until hours or even days later, so it’s important that a doctor evaluate you. Be sure to follow all recommended treatment regimens and attend follow-up appointments.
If you don’t see a doctor right away or follow the doctor’s orders, you will risk more than your own health. The at-fault driver could potentially argue that you worsened your own injuries or that something else caused them. Don’t hand the negligent driver an argument to use against you: either call 911 and request emergency medical services or visit an ER or doctor’s office right away.
Mistake #3: Posting On Social Media
Many accident victims in Buckeye, AZ and the West Valley make the mistake of posting about their accidents online. You may inadvertently say something damaging to your case if you do this. For example, you might underestimate how badly you were hurt; a simple comment like “I’m fine” could come back to haunt you later.
Even with the strictest privacy settings, you can never be sure who might see what you post online. Stay off social media and limit your discussions about the accident with friends and family. You will have plenty of time after your accident case is over to talk about it with others.
The Biggest Mistake: Not Hiring Legal Counsel
Of all the mistakes, this is one that could cost you the most amount of money. An experienced Buckeye, AZ automobile accident lawyer can help you seek the legal damages you deserve so you are fairly compensated for your losses. Learn more by reaching out to Gill Law Firm today.