Common Mistakes After An Auto Accident

After an auto accident many people forget to take the right steps in order to protect themselves. Lets face it, your senses are on overdrive, adrenaline is pumping and you may even be hurt, so it's easy to forget what to do. Here are some common mistakes that occur after an accident that can cost you in the long run.


#1. Forgetting to report the accident.
   
      Regardless of who was at fault or the amount of damage that occurred, all accidents should be reported. If you call the police and the officer fails to show up, report the accident to the police department within 24 hours. This is common when there is a low impact, low damage collision, but severe injury and costly damage can occur in accidents at less than 10mph. Always get a police report of the accident.

#2. Forgetting to get the other driver's information.

      Always get the other driver's name, contact information, insurance information and license plate. If the other driver refuses to give you this information or is attempting to leave the scene of the accident, write down their license plate information and a description of their vehicle. Never leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information.

#3. Failing to document the scene of the accident.

      Take pictures of the scene of the accident and any damage that occurs even if it's just a cell phone picture. If there are witnesses present, write down their contact information. If you are injured take pictures and document all injuries.

#4. Giving signed statements or talking with the other party's insurance company.

      Any information, signed or given over the phone, can be used against you. Before talking with anyone it is in your best interest to at least consult with an attorney. Many personal injury attorneys will give you a free consultation which will help you to determine the best way to proceed.

#5. Failing to get you or your car checked out by a specialist.

      Just because we can't see the damage doesn't mean that it is not there. Cars are designed absorb and transfer energy, which means that the damage to your car is not always visible. Make sure to get your vehicle checked out by a certified auto collision specialist.

      The same goes for your body. Just because you are not in pain, does not mean you were not injured. After an accident your body releases a rush of adrenaline and endorphins which act like natural pain killers. These endorphins can remain in the blood stream from a few hours to a few days. Many people who are injured in an accident will not experience symptoms until a few days to a few weeks after the accident. Just like your car, there may not be visible damage but injury can occur internally. It is always important to be seen by an auto accident specialist.

If you have any questions feel free to contact us at any of our four locations.

Seattle - Chinatown Office

608 8th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA98104
Tel: (206) 233-0818
Fax: (206) 292-9340

Skyway - Renton Office

12419 Renton Ave. S.
Seattle, WA98178
Tel: (206) 772-0088
Fax: (206) 772-5420

Bellevue Office

14862 SE Lake Hills Blvd.
Bellevue, WA 98007
Tel: (425) 649-9335
Fax: (425) 649-0256

Renton-Kent Office

500 SW 39th St, Suite 150
Renton, WA 98057
Tel: (425) 264-2590
Fax: (425) 264-2591