When you’ve been in an auto accident, it can be extremely jarring and disorienting – especially if you get injured. You might not be thinking straight after the accident and make certain mistakes, which could harm your chances of getting the settlement you deserve. You could be stuck covering your high medical bills and other expenses.
That’s why it’s critical to learn about the common mistakes to avoid after an auto accident in Portland. Then, if you get into an accident, you’ll know exactly what you should do instead.
Forgetting to Call the Police and DMV
It’s crucial to call the police and file a police report after an auto accident. You’ll also need to file a report with the DMV if the accident resulted in more than $2,500 worth of damages. To be on the safe side, you could contact the DMV either way.
Driving Away From the Scene
Even if you just tapped someone’s bumper, you cannot leave the scene without talking to them and providing your insurance information. If you hit someone’s car and they weren’t there, leave a note with your contact information and see if it was captured on camera at a nearby business.
Not Gathering Evidence
You may want to get away from the accident as fast as possible and forget to gather evidence. This is a huge mistake because you may not be able to prove that the accident wasn’t your fault. Instead, collect photographs of the scene, the other driver’s license plate, your visible injuries, and damage to your car and belongings. Take videos and record the locations of the video cameras you see. Take down written statements from witnesses, and write what you remember about what occurred.
Not Going to the Doctor
If you are injured, you must go to the doctor immediately for a checkup and follow their instructions for treatment. Otherwise, you won’t be able to prove that you were injured. If you don’t go to follow-ups and take your medicine, it may seem like your injuries are not that serious, and your settlement likely won’t be as high as it should be.
Telling Insurance Too Much
When the other driver’s insurance company calls you, they’ll try to get you to admit that the accident was your fault and/or offer you a very low settlement. Do not tell them anything other than the fact that the accident occurred. Don’t mention your injuries either. If you accept the first settlement, you cannot go back and request another one.
Not Calling a Personal Injury Lawyer
Your personal injury lawyer will fight on your behalf and negotiate with insurance to get you the settlement that’s rightfully yours. Don’t worry about cost; they’ll only charge you if they can get you a settlement. Right now, you need to focus on healing from your injuries – not going after insurance. Find a personal injury lawyer with the experience and results to back up their work.
Contact Zbinden & Curtis Today
Zbinden & Curtis, a Portland personal injury law firm, cares about accident victims, and we’re ready to help you with your Portland auto accident case. We fight tooth and nail for our clients to get them the settlement they deserve in their time of need.
Contact us today to learn more by calling (503) 287-5000 or contacting us on our website for a free case evaluation. We look forward to hearing from you.
