In the aftermath of a crash, contacting a Surprise car accident attorney could be the last thing on your mind. However, you should do it, as it could help you avoid costly mistakes. Many crash victims turn to an auto accident lawyer only when they realize they cannot win on their own.
By that time, most of them have already made mistakes that negatively influence their case. Had they reached out for help sooner, their situation would have surely been different. When taking over a case, most Surprise car accident attorneys warn their clients to avoid common mistakes. We will review the most common of them in the following lines.
5 Mistakes Surprise Car Accident Lawyers Warn Clients to Avoid
1. Leaving the Accident Scene
Many drivers do it without realizing they are breaking the law. Under A.R.S. 28-662 and A.R.S. 28-663, drivers have the obligation to stop at the accident scene. If they are unable to do so, they should return as soon as possible. They should provide their contact, driving license, and insurance information and assist the injured.
Those who do not could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, they risk paying fines and spending time in jail. Therefore, under no circumstances should you leave the accident scene.
If you do, leaving penalties aside, you risk being considered at fault and losing your right to compensation. It is better to stop at the scene and contact a Surprise car accident attorney. They will help you find the best solution for your case.
2. Not Getting a Medical Exam
When faced with the imminent danger or a car accident, many people experience a surge in adrenaline. This surge prevents them from experiencing pain and other injury symptoms. They convince themselves they are fine and lucky to be alive, and they neglect to see a doctor.
You should not, and a simple discussion with a Surprise car accident lawyer will reveal why. Some accident injuries display late symptoms but end up causing complications and huge expenses. It is better to get a complete medical exam immediately after the accident and diagnose them early. This way, you treat them accordingly and reduce their consequences to a minimum. If your injuries aggravate due to your negligence to see a doctor, no one will compensate them.
3. Not Gathering Evidence
Many accident victims have no idea they will need evidence in order to get compensation for their accident. At the accident scene, they venture in discussions, fights, or simply stay on the side, unsure how to proceed. When they eventually seek compensation, insurers dismiss their claims for lack of evidence.
The accident scene provides the most evidence but it is up to the victims to collect it. Unless you have an auto accident attorney collecting evidence for you, get to it. Take photos, shoot videos, and write down names and details. They will all come in handy later on.
4. Signing Waivers or Accepting Settlements without Consulting a Car Accident Attorney
Sometimes, the parties at fault get their car accident lawyers or insurance agents at the accident scene. The latter convince accident victims to sign right waivers or fast settlements. Their obvious goal is to reduce losses to a minimum.
If anyone asks you to sign documents or offers you a settlement, never rush into accepting. Instead, read everything carefully and consult a Surprise car accident lawyer. You could be giving up important rights or settling for much less than your case is worth.
5. Waiting Too Long before Contacting an Auto Accident Lawyer
Many accident victims find out that the statute of limitations for car accident claims is for two years. Thinking they have more time than they need, they neglect to get in touch with a car accident attorney. When they finally decide to do it, the latter no longer has time to gather the necessary evidence. Following procedures and dealing with the necessary paperwork takes time as well.
Instead of risking to have your claim dismissed for late filing, you should act fast. Get in touch with an auto accident lawyer right from the accident scene. They will help you avoid all the above mistakes and get you your compensation sooner.
Make an Appointment with a Surprise, AZ, Car Accident Attorney Today!
Would like to avoid the above mistakes and increase your chances to a rightful compensation? Then you should consult a trustworthy car accident attorney in Surprise, AZ as soon as possible. Make an appointment at 623-299-2747 and get the advice of a Warnock MacKinlay lawyer for free!
