10 Things Not to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angelas

A car accident in Los Angeles is often very traumatic and disorienting. This makes it difficult for car accident victims to know what steps to take immediately following a collision. An experienced car accident lawyer can help guide you through what steps you should take to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve after an accident.

While many drivers may know what they should do after a car accident, it’s just as important to know what NOT to do. Making the wrong decisions could hurt your chances of recovering damages and may shift liability from the other driver to you.

Here are 10 things you should be sure not to do after a car accident.

What NOT to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles

The moments following an auto accident can be disorienting. It’s important to be prepared in case you ever find yourself in such a situation.

Make sure to avoid taking the following steps after a car accident in Los Angeles.

1. Flee the Scene

Drivers may feel a sense of panic following an accident, causing them to flee the scene. However, fleeing the scene typically a crime. But, additionally it can also be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Meaning, even if the accident wasn’t your fault, you might be held liable.

2. Delay Calling Emergency Services

Drivers may not think to call 911 after a car accident in Los Angeles. Either because they don’t want to get the police involved or because they think the accident is too minor to necessitate emergency services.

However, no matter how severe or minor the accident, you should be sure to contact the authorities. Police reports serve as impartial records of car accidents that can help settle your claim.

3. Not Gathering Evidence

Following a serious accident, gathering evidence and documenting the collision may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But, by doing so it will drastically increase your chances of receiving compensation. Be sure to take photos, videos, and collect any other information that could support your claim.

4. Not Seeking Medical Attention

Even if you are involved in a minor car accident in Los Angeles and you don’t appear to be injured, it’s important to be evaluated. Seeking medical attention insures there are no minor or severe injuries lingering under the surface. Minor injuries can become more severe over time, and to receive compensation for your medical bills, it’s important to document your injuries immediately following an accident.

5. Admit Fault

Never admit fault after a car accident. Even if the accident is completely the other driver’s fault, saying something along the lines of “I’m sorry,” or “It’s my fault” could cause you to be held liable. Insurance companies will conduct their own investigations to determine fault, and your admission of guilt could be used against you in the future.

6. Use Social Media

Don’t post anything regarding your experience on social media, including any information about the accident or your injuries. Anything you post online could be uncovered during an investigation and used to deny your claim.

7. Give a Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Provider

Don’t provide a statement to the other driver’s insurance provider or attorney until you are fully prepared and have discussed the accident with your insurance company and lawyer. Doing so could result in evidence that can be used against you.

8. Give False or Misleading Statements

While it’s important not to admit fault, it’s just as important to be completely honest with authorities when giving your statement. Do not hide details or provide misleading information, and be sure to talk to your attorney to go over your statement regarding the accident.

9. File a Lawsuit Without Representation

Some drivers are tempted to file a lawsuit on their own without representation as they believe they have enough evidence to back up their claim. However, doing so could result in your case being dismissed as car accident lawsuits can be quite complex.

10. Forego Hiring a Lawyer

An experienced car accident attorney will help you understand what you should do following an accident and can help you recover the damages you deserve. This includes helping you prepare statements, negotiating with insurance companies, and if necessary, representing you in court.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you may be entitled to damages to cover property damage, medical bills, and lost wages. However, it’s important to take the proper steps following an accident to build a strong case and avoid liability.

B|B Law Group is dedicated to helping drivers recover the compensation they need to recover after being involved in an auto collision.

Contact us today to talk to one of our auto accident attorneys and learn more about our professional legal services.