Being involved in a car accident is one of the more stressful things that one can experience. Beyond the prospect of injury, there is also the issue of liability for the accident. Immediately from the time that you hopefully step out of your car after a car accident, every word you speak and action you take may have an impact on whether you are the one found liable for the accident. Here are some dos and don’ts after your car accident.
Don’t Admit Fault
The encounter with the other driver may be difficult, but under no circumstances should a driver ever admit liability. That is something that only your insurance company can do on your behalf. Your insurance company will likely not be happy in the least if you admit to liability for your accident because your words at the time of the accident will carry weight afterwards. In other words, do not ever discuss fault with the other party.
Don’t Lose Your Cool
As difficult as it is after a traumatic occurrence, drivers should not lose their temper with the other driver. An angry driver may inadvertently slip and make a damaging admission. In addition, there may be witnesses to the accident who may be disturbed by the angry demeanor of a driver and may be less willing to back up the account of a menacing driver.
Don’t Speak with Anyone but Your Insurance
Do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company. They are not on your side in any way. Their interest is reducing their own exposure, and your issues are not their concern. According to Derrick Law Firm’s car accident attorneys, if you are required to talk to the other driver’s insurance company, only do so with a lawyer.
Do Document
Drivers should document everything about an accident to the extent that they can. The accident scene is your only chance to take pictures and notes before it is cleaned up and evidence disappears. Drivers should take as many pictures as they can and make sure that they preserve all evidence that may be of help. This way, when it comes to hiring a Las Vegas car accident lawyer or similar, they will be able to hand over everything that may be of help in proving that their case is necessary.
Do Call the Police
Drivers should always call the police after a car accident. This is true even if there were no injuries involved in the accident. It never hurts to have a police report of the accident. In addition, a police report may be a necessity to file a claim with insurance. If the other driver committed a moving offense that led to the accident, it may be noted in the report.
Do Speak to Witnesses
Drivers should make an attempt to ascertain whether there are any witnesses to the accident. When there are two differing accounts to a story, often a witness’s recollection can help determine who was at fault for the accident. Drivers should write down the names and contact information of possible witnesses and be prepared to provide them to the insurance company or their attorney, if necessary. Contacting an attorney from a reputed company who could get you legal representation for your case could also be of help. You could visit visit Uvalle Law Firm today (or similar others in your area) if you would like to get legal counsel for your unfortunate mishap.
It is vital that you act to protect your legal rights as soon as possible after a car accident. Contact an attorney to start the process of securing your rights.
