The days and weeks after a car accident are important, especially if you were hurt in the crash. If you want to seek compensation for your injuries, every decision you make can impact your health and your claim for damages. Luckily, an experienced injury attorney can advise you throughout the process.
Before you move forward, it is helpful to understand the mistakes to avoid after a San Jose car accident. A single mistake can be costly, making it vital to proceed with caution. To ensure that your case is handled correctly, please call the Valero Law Group and speak with our legal team.
Leaving the Scene of the Accident
One of the most devastating errors to avoid is leaving the scene of a San Jose auto wreck before police arrive. State law requires the involved parties to notify law enforcement and remain at the scene when a collision leads to bodily injuries, death, or substantial property damage.
Therefore, fleeing the scene of an accident under these circumstances is a crime. The police can arrest the person, and their actions can have a negative impact on their personal injury case as well. The prosecuting attorney can then argue that the individual’s departure was a sign that they knew they were at fault.
Speak With Insurance Adjusters
It is never advantageous to speak to the adjusters who work for the other driver’s insurance company without guidance. Their goal is to reduce the amount the carrier is required to pay for each claim, even if that means purposefully misconstruing an injured driver’s words. Instead of speaking to the adjuster themselves, injured motorists can let an attorney handle it. Call the Valero Law Group to avoid making any mistakes while speaking with the insurance company.
Admitting Fault
Car crash victims have a limited obligation to interact with the other driver, which includes providing their driver’s license and insurance information when asked. However, it is vital that they limit this interaction beyond what is required. Just like with insurance adjusters, what a person says to the other party can be held against them in the future, especially if they admit fault at the scene.
Even if a person does not outwardly admit fault, the other side can take their statement out of context and claim that they accepted responsibility. Something as benign as apologizing because the other driver was injured can be misconstrued. It is vital to avoid discussing these matters with the other party following a San Jose vehicle wreck to prevent misjudgments.
Failing To Seek Medical Treatment
The best way a person can protect their health and avoid mishaps following a car crash is to immediately see a San Jose doctor. Assuming that injuries are minor or that they will heal on their own is a mistake. Not only should a driver find medical care as soon as they realize they are injured, but it is also crucial that they obey their physician’s plan.
When someone immediately sees a doctor, they are creating evidence that proves they received care. This is helpful to counter any argument claiming that they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent their condition from worsening.
Contact a Lawyer in San Jose About the Mistakes To Avoid After an Auto Accident
These are only a handful of the mistakes to avoid after a San Jose car accident. To protect yourself and your case for compensation, you should work with experienced legal counsel who understands how to navigate the legal process. Call the Valero Law Group today for a confidential consultation.
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