The scene immediately following a traffic collision is usually filled with chaos and concern, making it difficult to figure out exactly what the parties involved should do next. Of course, what takes place in the minutes following a car crash will largely depend on the nature of injuries suffered, but it’s also important to take into consideration how your actions in the aftermath can significantly affect a personal injury case in the long run should you need to pursue one.

Many citizens end up needing a Redding car accident lawyer every day, and oftentimes without realizing it, they’ve already made several detrimental mistakes that may negatively impact their cases. If you ever require counsel because of a car wreck, do your best to remember not to make the errors mentioned below so that when all is said and done, you aren’t the one stuck footing the bill for medical expenses and property damages that were the result of an incident that wasn’t even your fault.

Documentation Mistakes

In a situation where you’ve been seriously hurt, it’s critical that you receive medical attention right away. However, if it is possible to do so before getting checked out by healthcare professionals, you should always take the following steps to document all the evidence you’ll need to help prove your case:

  • Make a police report
  • Get detailed information on all other drivers, including name, address, phone number, insurance company name and policy numbers, driver’s license number and vehicle license plate number
  • Obtain witness testimonies
  • Take photos of the accident site and damage to vehicles
  • File a claim with your insurance provider

Failing to get all pertinent information will only make it that much harder to negotiate a fair settlement.

Medical Mistakes

There are also numerous ways that victims neglect to take the proper medical precautions in the wake of a traffic collision. Though you might feel fine right after the incident has happened, there is always the possibility that injuries could come up hours, and sometimes days, later. Traumas can also go physically unseen if they’re internal, making it that much more vital not to disregard these recommendations:

  • Don’t forego or put off seeking medical care
  • Save all bills and receipts related to medical exams and treatments
  • Take photos of your injuries
  • Follow all medical advice given by healthcare professionals

Legal Mistakes

One of the last elements of your case that you don’t want to make mistakes in is in regards to the legal aspect. First and foremost, not retaining the guidance of an experienced car accident lawyer is a serious misstep. An attorney will not only ensure that you have all the documentation and paperwork completed to make your claim, but will also take the stress of negotiation and a trial off your shoulders. Without appropriate representation, the chances of receiving the full amount of compensation that you’re entitled to dwindles down quite a bit. In addition, they keep you from ruining your case by talking too much to the other party’s insurance claims adjustor, signing documents you don’t really understand and settling too soon.

Finding yourself in these type of circumstances is very traumatic, and it can be easy to make all these mistakes without the counsel of a Redding car accident lawyer. If you’ve been injured, don’t hesitate to get help immediately.