Are you a safe and responsible driver? Unfortunately, you’re still at risk of serious injury every time you get in a car. Car accidents are the most common type of personal injury cases, according to All Law. If you’re injured because of a reckless driver’s negligence, you’re entitled to compensation. But that doesn’t mean your case will be straightforward. It’s important to understand how to avoid the critical mistakes that could complicate your personal injury case. Keep reading for how to avoid 8 critical mistakes that many innocent drivers make after a car accident:

Mistake #1: Leaving the Scene Without Information

Don’t forget to take notes and pictures, and get a copy of the police report generated at the scene of the accident. Make sure you read the report carefully for any inaccuracies. 

Mistake #2. Forgetting to Talk to Witnesses if Possible

If there are witnesses at the scene, ask if they will cooperate in helping you gather evidence. Record their names, contact info, and their account of the accident.

Mistake #3: Not Calling the Police

Be aware that sometimes the at-fault party will try to convince you not to call the police. Don’t listen! Without a police report, proving your innocence in the case might be more difficult.

Mistake #4: Admitting Fault

It’s tempting to release tension after an accident by offering condolences to everyone involved, but even saying “I’m sorry” to the other party could be used against you as a way to argue you were at fault. That leads to the next point:

Mistake #5: Saying Too Much

Because the other party might be trying to gather evidence that covers up their fault in the accident, saying too much could come back to bite you. Limit conversation to simply exchanging contact information and ensuring that everyone involved gets the medical attention that they need. In addition, after leaving the scene of the accident, don’t discuss your case or your medical treatments with anyone besides your attorney.

Mistake #6: Delaying Medical Care

Even if you think you are unharmed, get a professional medical opinion and to stay alert for signs of serious complications like spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more. According to The Mayo Clinic, neglecting to get prompt medical assistance for these kinds of injuries can put you at risk of even more severe injuries. It can also hurt your legal case!

Mistake #7: Signing Away Your Rights

Don’t sign any documents presented to you unless you consult with your personal injury attorney first.

Mistake #8: Giving Recorded Statements to the Other Party

Talk to your personal injury attorney first! Otherwise, your words can be used against you.

Another essential mistake to avoid is: don’t give up! Even if a police report or the other party assigns blame to you, don’t neglect seeking help from a personal injury attorney. Police reports and personal accounts do not have the final word in your case, and you can often get the compensation you need and deserve by contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible!

Have been involved in a car accident in Jackson, MS? Do you believe the other driver was at fault? We’re here to help fight for the justice you deserve!

Call 601-914-1025 or contact us online.

Heilman Law Group, PA

Jackson Office

4266 I-55 North, Suite 106

Jackson, Mississippi 39211

Phone: 601-914-1025

Fax: 601-960-4200