If you’ve been involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Injuries, property damage, medical bills, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies can make the recovery process even more difficult. However, one of the best things you can do to protect your future is to avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your case. At Avrek Law Firm, we understand how complicated the process can be, which is why our team of Pasadena injury lawyers is here to help guide you through every step.
Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid after a car crash, and why hiring an injuries lawyer near Pasadena can make all the difference in securing a favorable outcome for your case.
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Many car accident victims make the mistake of downplaying their injuries, thinking they will get better on their own. This is particularly true when injuries like whiplash or soft tissue damage aren’t immediately apparent. If you don’t seek medical attention right after a crash, it could harm both your health and your case.
A Pasadena injury lawyer will tell you that insurance companies often look for reasons to devalue or deny claims, and one of the first things they’ll question is whether you received immediate medical care. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, getting checked out can ensure your injuries are documented. Delaying medical attention can complicate your case later on, making it harder to prove that the accident was the cause of your injuries.
2. Failing to Document the Scene of the Accident
After an accident, it’s vital to collect as much evidence as possible. This includes taking pictures of the scene, your vehicle, any damages, and your visible injuries. Failing to document these details can make it much more difficult for a car accident attorney to build a strong case for you. Without photographic evidence or witness testimony, it may be harder to prove fault.If you are physically able, gather names and contact information of witnesses, and take note of the other driver’s insurance details. These simple steps can be invaluable later on in the claims process. Having a Pasadena injury lawyer to guide you on what evidence is most important can help you avoid missing key details.
3. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize the amount they pay out, and they often use tactics to get you to settle for less than you deserve. One of the biggest mistakes you can make after an accident is talking to an insurance adjuster without consulting with an injury lawyer Pasadena first.
Insurance companies will often try to get you to make a statement about the accident or injuries that could potentially harm your claim. An injury lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and that you’re not taken advantage of. The right legal counsel will know how to handle the negotiations and ensure you’re not pressured into settling for less than you deserve.
4. Admitting Fault at the Scene
After an accident, emotions can run high. It’s natural to want to apologize or explain what happened, especially if you think the crash was partially your fault. However, making any statements at the scene of the accident could be used against you later in your case.
Even if you feel responsible, do not admit fault or apologize to the other driver or any bystanders. In many cases, fault can be shared between both parties, or the other driver may be fully responsible. By admitting fault early on, you may weaken your case and reduce your chances of receiving full compensation. Personal injury lawyers are skilled in handling situations like these and will help you build a case without the risk of harming your position.
5. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
One of the most critical mistakes you can make is waiting too long to file your claim. Every state has a statute of limitations that dictates how much time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. In California, the statute of limitations for most car accidents is two years from the date of the crash.
However, certain circumstances can shorten that timeline, especially if the accident involves a government entity or a commercial vehicle. Contacting an injury attorney as soon as possible is important to ensure you meet all the deadlines and don’t miss the chance to pursue compensation for your injuries. Waiting too long could prevent you from receiving the full compensation you deserve.
Why Hiring a Pasadena Injury Lawyer Can Help Avoid These Mistakes
At Avrek Law Firm, we understand the complexities of personal injury claims. Our team of personal injury attorneys has extensive experience in handling car accident cases and will ensure you don’t make the critical mistakes that can harm your claim. We offer free consultations, where we’ll review your case and advise you on the best course of action.
Hiring an experienced lawyer has several benefits. Not only can we handle all the legal details, but we’ll also ensure that you don’t miss any important deadlines or make mistakes that could cost you in the long run. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything until we secure compensation for you. With our help, you can focus on recovering while we focus on your case.
The Role of an Injury Attorney Pasadena in Your Recovery
When you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with insurance companies and legal paperwork can add unnecessary stress. Having an injury attorney on your side can ease that burden and give you peace of mind knowing that your case is in good hands. Our attorneys will defend your rights, ensuring that all aspects of your claim are handled professionally.
If your accident involved a commercial truck, you might need the expertise of a truck accident lawyer. These cases can be more complicated than standard car accidents due to the involvement of larger corporations and multiple insurance policies. At Avrek Law Firm, we handle all types of accidents, from standard car crashes to rideshare accidents. Our team will ensure you are compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Real-Life Statistics on Car Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, there were approximately 2.3 million people injured in motor vehicle crashes across the United States. Furthermore, research shows that 36,096 people were killed in car crashes that same year, making it clear that car accidents are a serious public safety issue.
These statistics emphasize the importance of having a dedicated Pasadena injury lawyer by your side after an accident. With such high numbers of injuries and fatalities each year, it’s crucial to have a legal team that knows how to effectively navigate the claims process to secure fair compensation.
Contact Avrek Law Firm Today for a Free Case Review
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you consult with a personal injury lawyer, the better your chances of avoiding common mistakes and securing the compensation you deserve. At Avrek Law Firm, we’re here to support you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today at 866-598-5548, chat with a representative online, or complete our online form to schedule your free case review. Our team of Pasadena injury lawyers is ready to support you every step of the way.