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What Not to Do After a California Car Accident

October 27, 2020
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You have been injured by someone else’s negligence, and you’re probably feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next. While every car accident claim has its own set of circumstances and will follow its own path, there are some universal don’ts when it comes to car accidents. Read on to learn more, and remember that it’s always in your best interest to seek the professional legal counsel of an experienced Bay Area car accident attorney. 

Don’t Confront the Other Driver

If you’re injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver, you are well-advised to say as little as possible. Those statements uttered in the heat of the moment can come back to haunt your car accident case. Regardless of the situation, do not get into an argument about the accident with the other driver. The adrenaline and stress of being in an accident make it easier to lose your cool, and coming to words with the other driver is not going to do your case any good. It is fine – and recommended – to make sure the other motorist is not seriously injured and to provide whatever aid you can until the emergency medical professionals arrive. Finally, don’t give in to your impulse to say you’re sorry, as it can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. 

Don’t Blame Yourself

Regardless of who you think caused the accident that left you injured, don’t talk about it at the scene. The insurance company and your experienced personal injury attorney will determine who is at fault – based on the law. It’s natural to feel at fault when an accident happens, but if you weren’t driving negligently, you very well may not be. By drawing attention to the matter, you may be taken at your word, which does not bode well for your case. 

Don’t Bypass the Insurance Company

If the other driver wants to skip the insurance company and deal with the matter between yourselves, do not agree to do so. Regardless of what kind of offer the other driver makes you, give it a hard pass. You are required to alert the police to the accident, and making a deal with the at-fault driver is very unlikely to provide you with the compensation to which you are entitled (if you get anything at all). The only way to protect your rights is through the insurance process.

Don’t Refuse to Share Your Information with the At-Fault Driver

It feels weird to provide private information to an absolute stranger who’s left you injured, but the law requires you to, so the best practice is to comply. The information and documentation you’re required to provide include:

  • Your driver’s license
  • Your current address (if different from the one on your license)
  • Your vehicle registration
  • Your proof of insurance

The at-fault driver is required to share the same with you.

Consult with an Experienced Bay Area Car Accident Lawyer Today

The dedicated car accident attorneys at Bogaards Law – proudly serving the Bay Area – have reserves of experience that they’re well prepared to channel in defense of your rights and in support of your rightful compensation. For a free consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

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