Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident 

Traffic collisions are a common occurrence in Texas and across the United States. Due to the sudden nature of these crashes, many accident victims are often confused about the next steps to take. However, what you do – or fail to do – can have a massive impact on the outcome of your injury claims. A well-informed Texas personal injury attorney can inform you about the common mistakes to avoid when involved in an auto accident.  

At The Law Office of Aaron Fonseca, I am enthused to direct, support, and represent car accident victims in their personal injury claims. As your legal team, I can examine every element of your personal situation and research your options to recover damages. In addition, I will help file your insurance claims or lawsuit, represent you diligently in your case, and hold those responsible for your injuries liable. My firm is proud to serve clients across Edinburg, Rio Grande Valley, Mission, and McAllen, Texas. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident 

Getting hurt in an accident caused by a negligent party can be an emotional and unsettling experience. Regardless, you need to take the right steps – after the incident – to ensure that you do not hurt your case inadvertently. Here are some common mistakes to avoid after a car accident. 

Not Seeking Medical Help Right Away 

After an accident, the first thing to do is to seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 to get prompt medical help for injuries to yourself and others. A qualified physician can evaluate your current state, detect any hidden injuries and symptoms, provide adequate treatment, or refer you to a specialist. Also, the doctor can document your injuries in your medical record. 

Not Calling the Police to the Scene of the Accident 

Under Texas law – Texas Transportation Code Section 550.062 – any traffic accident that causes injury, death of a person, or property damage of over $1,000 must be reported to law enforcement. Hence, ensure that you call the police to the accident scene as soon as possible. 

Admitting Guilt 

Following a traffic crash, you should provide the police with accurate details of the incident. Nonetheless, do not admit guilt. If you admit guilt, the insurance provider may use this as an excuse to deny or undervalue your claims. Likewise, the other party may file a lawsuit against you. 

Not Taking the Time to Gather Evidence/Pictures 

Evidence is a crucial part of proving negligence in an accident claim. Make sure you gather substantial evidence after the accident. These include accident scene photos, witness testimonies and statements, and police reports. 

Waiting too Long to File a Claim/Lawsuit 

However, do not delay unnecessarily before filing your injury claims or lawsuit. If you continue to wait, you may misplace vital documents, forget relevant information about your case, or eventually exceed the Texas car accident statute of limitations – two (2) years from the date of the accident or injury. 

Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company 

Also, do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company. The insurance company or claims adjuster cannot protect your best interests. During your interview, they may interpret your statements wrongly, take your words out of context, or use them against you during negotiations or in court. 

Accepting the First Offer from the Insurance Company 

Also, never accept the insurer’s first settlement offer. The first offer is usually low and may not cover all your medical bills and other accident-related expenses. Your reliable Texas car accidents attorney can help you negotiate a better offer with the insurance company or file a lawsuit if required. 

Not Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney 

Finally, do not file your injury claims or negotiate with the insurance carrier without an attorney. An understanding personal injury attorney can review the facts of your case, determine the extent of your injuries, analyze your possibilities to pursue damages, and help seek the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.   

Let a Skilled Personal Injury Attorney Help 

A negligent accident can result in minor or serious injuries, property damages, hospitalization, or missed time at work. However, you don’t have to suffer the pain and financial liability all alone. At The Law Office of Aaron Fonseca, I have the resources to help you hold those responsible for your injuries accountable.  

Furthermore, I can assess the facts of your case carefully, gather and document evidence, and help prove negligence. Likewise, I will determine the magnitude of your injuries and estimate the case value. Having me on your side can improve your chances of the most favorable outcome in your car accident case.  

Contact me at The Law Office of Aaron Fonseca today to arrange a straightforward case assessment. I can fight compassionately for your legal rights and help you seek the financial justice that you deserve. My firm is proud to serve clients throughout Edinburg, Rio Grande Valley, Mission, and McAllen, Texas.