Car accidents can change lives in an instant. In Texas, where roads are often busy and traffic accidents are common, knowing what to do after a crash is essential. However, making a wrong move or forgetting a crucial step can seriously harm your chance of getting fair compensation. From the moment a crash happens, you need to be aware of actions that could negatively impact your case. Avoiding these mistakes may improve the outcome of your case and protect your legal rights. At, Willumsen Law Firm, P.C, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Failing to Gather Evidence at the Scene
One of the first mistakes people make is not collecting evidence right after an accident. When a crash occurs, emotions and adrenaline run high. In such moments, gathering evidence might not seem like the most important task. Yet, taking photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries is critical. These photos show the extent of damage, road conditions, and other important details that may be harder to prove later.
Another part of gathering evidence is talking to witnesses. Bystanders may have seen details you missed. When possible, get names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their accounts could support your version of events if there is a dispute about who was at fault. If you fail to gather this evidence, it may be harder to prove your side of the story later, making your case more challenging.
Leaving the Scene of the Accident Too Soon
Leaving the accident scene too quickly can also harm your case. Many people are unsure of the proper steps to take and may leave once they feel they are not injured or when the damage seems minor. However, Texas law requires you to stay at the scene, especially if anyone is hurt or if there is significant property damage. Leaving too soon may lead to legal consequences and weaken your case by suggesting you were unconcerned or at fault.
Before leaving, make sure to report the accident to local law enforcement. The police report is an important document, as it will provide an official record of the accident, including details like the date, time, and location, as well as statements from both drivers and witnesses. This report can play a major role in your case. Leaving the scene without reporting the accident or waiting for authorities could raise questions about your credibility later on.
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Not Getting Immediate Medical Attention
Another common mistake is not seeking medical care immediately after a crash. Some people may feel fine or have only minor pain following an accident, but injuries are not always obvious right away. Internal injuries, whiplash, and even concussions may not show symptoms until hours or days later. By delaying a visit to the doctor, you risk not only your health but also the success of your case.
Medical records are critical evidence when filing a claim. They provide proof of your injuries and connect them to the accident. If you wait too long to see a doctor, it may look like your injuries are unrelated or not as severe as you claim. Always seek medical help promptly, even if you think your injuries are minor. This precaution not only helps with your recovery but also strengthens your case by showing that you took your injuries seriously.
Speaking About the Accident with Insurance Companies Right Away
Communicating with insurance companies requires caution. After an accident, the other driver’s insurer might contact you for a statement. While you may feel obligated to share details, speaking with them too soon can harm your case. Insurance adjusters are trained to look for ways to minimize the amount they pay, and they may use your words against you.
It’s best to avoid discussing fault or providing a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first. An attorney can help guide you in these conversations, ensuring you don’t accidentally say something that could weaken your claim. Handling these interactions carefully is important, as saying too much, or the wrong thing, might affect the compensation you receive.
Posting About the Accident on Social Media
In today’s world, social media is a big part of our lives. After an accident, you may feel the urge to share what happened with friends and family online. However, posting on social media can negatively impact your case. Insurance companies may look at your social media posts for any information that could contradict your claim. Even a casual post about feeling okay or photos showing you active could be used as evidence against you.
Staying off social media or limiting what you share is the safest approach. You may want to avoid discussing your injuries, accident details, or recovery status. It’s easy to accidentally share information that can be misinterpreted, so protecting your privacy can protect your case.
I highly recommend attorney Fred Willumsen. He is professional, thorough, forthright, and kind. He communicated well throughout the process, took the time to answer any question I had, told me just how things were, whether good news or bad. He advised well on decisions I needed to make, and his support team did a great job in helping to navigate and resolved my case with the best results possible. Thanks again, Fred!” - A.M. Fred Willumsen was understanding , compassionate and very knowledgeable . Mr. Willumsen kept in contact with us every step of our case . His time and dedication was definitely appreciated.” - Sean Smith
Not Following the Doctor’s Orders
When recovering from injuries, following your doctor’s instructions is essential for both your health and your legal case. Failing to follow prescribed treatments or skipping appointments could suggest that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. Insurance companies may use this as a reason to question your commitment to recovery or the legitimacy of your injuries.
Keeping a consistent treatment schedule shows that you are serious about getting better and that your injuries are real. If you are advised to attend physical therapy, take medication, or rest, following these recommendations can prevent any questions about your recovery process and your commitment to getting well.
Attempting to Settle Quickly Without Legal Guidance
A quick settlement might seem tempting, especially if you’re facing medical bills or lost wages. However, accepting the first offer from an insurance company without legal guidance can lead to a lower settlement than you deserve. Insurance companies may try to resolve cases quickly and for as little money as possible, hoping that you’ll accept an initial offer without question.
Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney before accepting a settlement offer can help you understand whether the amount is fair and covers your losses. An attorney can review your case and advise you on whether to negotiate for more. Without legal advice, you risk accepting less than you need to fully recover financially from the accident.
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Failing to Keep Detailed Records of Expenses
After an accident, the expenses can add up quickly, from medical bills to vehicle repairs and even lost wages. Keeping a record of all these expenses is important for your claim. If you don’t keep track of these costs, it can be difficult to prove the full extent of your losses. This oversight may reduce the amount you can recover, as you won’t have the documentation needed to support your claim.
Save all bills, receipts, and any other documentation related to your accident. Keep a record of missed workdays, any treatments you received, and even minor costs like travel expenses for medical appointments. Detailed records make a strong case for fair compensation by showing how the accident affected your finances.
Delaying Contact with a Lawyer
Finally, delaying contact with an attorney can harm your case. Texas has a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a car accident claim. If you wait too long, you could lose the right to seek compensation. Even if you think you have plenty of time, waiting too long to seek legal advice can make gathering evidence harder and may impact the strength of your case.
A qualified car accident attorney can help protect your rights, gather evidence, and navigate the complexities of Texas accident laws. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Car accident cases can be complex, and small mistakes can make a big difference in the outcome. By avoiding these common pitfalls and understanding your rights, you protect yourself and improve your chances of a favorable result. If you’ve been involved in a car accident and want to make sure your rights are fully protected, Willumsen Law Firm, P.C. is here to help. With our knowledge and dedication, we will work to secure the compensation you deserve. Reach out today to discuss your case and learn how we can support you in this challenging time.