You’re at risk of injury due to someone else’s negligence almost anywhere – at work, on the road, on vacation – and it’s important to understand how to avoid the critical mistakes that could hurt your case. Lawyers.com helps outline some essential “Do Not’s” of personal injury accidents:
Do NOT Leave the Scene of the Accident Without Gathering Information
This includes taking notes, taking pictures (from many different angles), and getting a copy of the police report generated at the scene of the accident. Make sure you read the report carefully for any inaccuracies.
Do NOT Forget to Talk to Witnesses if Possible
If there are potential witnesses at the scene, talk to them and see if they will cooperate in helping you gather evidence. Record their names, contact info, and their account of what happened in the accident.
Do NOT Neglect to Call the Police
Be aware that sometimes the at-fault party will try to convince you not to call the police. Don’t give in! Without a police report, proving your innocence in the case might be more difficult.
Do NOT Admit Fault
While it’s tempting to release tension after an accident by offering condolences to everyone involved, it’s wise to say as little as possible. Even saying “I’m sorry” to the other party could be used against you as a way to argue you were at fault. That leads to the next point:
Do NOT Say Too Much!
Because the other party might be trying to gather evidence that covers up their fault in the accident, saying too much could come back to bite you. Limit conversation to simply exchanging contact information and ensuring that everyone involved gets the medical attention that they need. In addition, after leaving the scene of the accident, don’t discuss your case or your medical treatments with anyone besides your attorney.
Do NOT Delay in Getting Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you are harmed, it’s a good idea to get a professional medical opinion and to stay alert for signs of serious complications like spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more. According to The Mayo Clinic, neglecting to get prompt medical assistance for these kinds injuries can put you at risk of even more severe injuries. It can also hurt your legal case!
Do NOT Sign Anything!
Don’t sign any documents presented to you unless you consult with your personal injury attorney first. Often, insurance adjusters or the other party might try to get you to unknowingly sign a release of liability.
Do NOT Give Recorded Statements
Talk to your personal injury attorney first, otherwise your words can be used against you.
Do NOT Give Up!
Even if a police report or the other party assigns blame to you, don’t neglect seeking help from a personal injury attorney. Police reports and personal accounts do not have the final word in your case, and you can often get the compensation you need and deserve by contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible!
If you have been involved in an accident in the Albuquerque area, The Law Office of Brian K. Branch, PC is here to help you get the compensation you deserve! Do NOT wait to get started on your case! Call us at 505-207-4401 or contact us online today.
Law Office of Brian K Branch, PC
715 Marquette Ave. NW
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102
Tel: 505-207-4401