Getting into a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. In the chaos that follows, it’s easy to make mistakes that could hurt your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Knowing what to do and what not to do after an accident is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
At Koller Baker & Associates, we help injury victims in Oklahoma navigate the complexities of car accident claims. Our experienced attorneys are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you get the compensation you need to recover. Here are eight critical mistakes to avoid when dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury accident.
1. Leaving the Scene of the Accident
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is leaving the accident scene before law enforcement arrives. In Oklahoma, leaving the scene of an accident—especially if there are injuries or significant property damage—can lead to serious legal consequences. It is important that you stay at the scene, check for injuries, and call 911.
2. Not Calling Law Enforcement
Even if the accident seems minor, calling the police is crucial. Officers will document the scene, gather witness statements, and file an accident report. This report can serve as important evidence in a personal injury claim. Without it, proving fault may be more challenging.
3. Admitting Fault Too Soon
In the moments after an accident, it’s natural to feel apologetic, even if you weren’t at fault. However, statements like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, it’s best to avoid admitting fault until all the facts are clear.
4. Delaying Medical Treatment
Even if you don’t feel injured right away, some injuries—like whiplash or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms for hours or days. Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident not only ensures your health and safety but also provides documentation that links your injuries to the crash. Delaying medical treatment could give insurance companies a reason to deny or devalue your claim.
5. Failing to Gather Evidence
If you’re physically able, try to document the accident scene. Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements may be important in proving fault. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
6. Not Getting Contact Information from the Other Driver
After an accident, it’s essential to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Be sure to get their full name, phone number, insurance details, license plate number, and vehicle information. Without this information, filing a claim can become much more complicated.
7. Failing to Seek Legal Advice Early
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than they’re worth. Speaking with an experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorney at Koller Baker & Associates as soon as possible can help protect your rights. We’ll review your case, negotiate with insurers, and ensure you don’t accept a settlement that’s less than what you deserve.
8. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Oklahoma has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims. This means you typically have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to seek compensation. It’s crucial to act quickly to gather evidence, document your injuries, and begin the claims process before the deadline passes.
Contact Koller Baker & Associates for a Free Consultation
After an accident, the decisions you make can have a lasting impact on your financial recovery. At Koller Baker & Associates, we are dedicated to helping car accident victims in Oklahoma understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
