Accidents occur in the blink of an eye, and your decisions immediately afterward can have long-lasting consequences. Many victims unknowingly make mistakes that weaken their claims or delay their recovery. Don’t let this be you!
They’ve helped countless clients overcome these challenges at the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg. As a trusted car accident attorney in Los Angeles, they’re here to guide you through the process. Let’s explore people’s most common mistakes after a crash and how to avoid them.
Failing to Call 911: The Risk of Skipping Immediate Help
Imagine this: You’ve been in a fender bender. No one seems hurt, and the damage looks minimal. You think, “Why bother calling 911?” But skipping this step can backfire.
- Why It’s Critical: A police report is an official accident record vital for insurance claims and potential legal action.
- California Law Reminder: In Los Angeles, accidents involving injuries or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to authorities.
What You Should Do: Call 911 after any crash, no matter how minor it seems. Responders can assess injuries, document the scene, and create a report that your Los Angeles motor vehicle accident lawyer can use to strengthen your case.
Admitting Fault: A Simple Statement That Could Cost You
After a crash, emotions run high, and saying something like, “I’m sorry” may seem natural. But even a casual apology can be interpreted as admitting fault.
- The Risk: Insurance companies and opposing attorneys might use your words against you to deny or reduce your claim.
- What Happens in Los Angeles: Traffic patterns here are complex, and fault isn’t always straightforward. Never assume responsibility without a thorough investigation.
What You Should Do: Stick to the facts when speaking with police or other drivers. Let your Los Angeles car accident attorney maintain discussions about fault. A simple “I need to consult my attorney first” works perfectly.
Ignoring Minor Injuries: Why Every Symptom Matters
Let’s say you walk away from the accident feeling fine. Days later, you start experiencing neck pain or dizziness. Ignoring these symptoms can worsen your condition and undermine your claim.
- The Hidden Danger: Injuries like whiplash or concussions often take time to manifest. Without immediate documentation, insurance companies may argue your injuries aren’t accident-related.
- Los Angeles Insight: Busy hospitals and high healthcare costs mean many delay seeking treatment, a decision that can hurt their case.
What You Should Do: Visit a doctor immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine. Keep a journal of symptoms and follow medical advice. These records are essential for your Los Angeles motor vehicle accident lawyer to prove your damages.
Not Collecting Evidence: The Power of Photos and Witnesses
Picture this: You leave the crash scene without taking photos or gathering witness details, thinking the police report will suffice. Unfortunately, this oversight can weaken your case.
- Why Evidence Matters: Photos, videos, and eyewitness accounts prove what happened.
- Los Angeles Edge: Security cameras and traffic cams are often nearby in this city. Failing to collect Evidence could mean missing critical details.
What You Should Do:
- Snap photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Gather names and contact information from witnesses.
- Note the time, location, and weather. Share this with your Los Angeles car accident attorney to build a compelling case.
How the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg Can Help
Recovering from a car accident can be Impossible, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg, they’re committed to getting maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose Us?
- Over 35 years of experience in Los Angeles car accident cases
- A personalized, compassionate approach to every case
- A proven track record of winning valuable settlements
Take Action Today
Avoiding these common mistakes could be the difference between a successful claim and financial stress. If you’ve been involved in a crash, don’t delay—contact the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg today.
Schedule your free consultation with a top-rated Los Angeles car accident attorney now.
