Being injured in a car accident can be a frightening and emotional experience. While a difficult experience, car accidents – particularly the immediate aftermath of a car accident – are crucially important times for victims who are not at fault. Should you or your loved one be involved in an accident, or if you have recently been injured in an accident, being aware of the common mistakes victims make can help you better protect your rights and your future personal injury claim.

Some of the most common mistakes you should avoid after a car accident include:

Do Not Leave the Scene
No matter if you believe you are at fault or a victim, you should never leave the scene of an accident. Doing so can greatly complicate your insurance claim and may be grounds for criminal charges.

Do Not Discuss Fault
Never, under any circumstance, discuss fault. In the heat of the moment, this can be difficult. However, what you say and do after an accident can significantly impact the trajectory of your case. It is best not to discuss fault at the scene or personally with any other parties involved. Do not admit to fault and do not say "sorry," for even this simple statement can possibly be taken as an admission of fault.

Do Not Forget to Collect Contact Information
Although there may be a police report, it is always a wise decision to collect contact information of your own. This includes all relevant information from any other drivers involved in an accident, as well as information from any witnesses.

Do Not Speak with Insurance Companies Without an Attorney
This is one of the most common and the most troubling mistakes victims make after an auto accident. It is important to remember that insurance companies are corporations that are in business to collect premiums, not pay out claims. They do their best to pay victims as little as possible, and attempt to do so by capitalizing on victims without legal representation. Working with an experienced lawyer who knows how to deal with insurance companies can protect you from unfair compensation.

Familiarizing yourself with common mistakes can help you learn how to avoid situations that threaten your right to full and fair compensation. At times of physical, emotional, and financial turbulence, navigating the accident and personal injury claim process can be tremendously difficult. At Scott Mitchell Law Incorporated, a Modesto car accident lawyer is prepared to provide the immediate assistance and experienced representation you need. For a free consultation, call (209) 418-7386.