If you’re involved in a minor accident in Washington, it might seem easier to cut your losses and drive off after making sure that the other driver wasn’t injured. But even if you and the other driver agree not to say anything, failing to act after a car accident can cause issues later on down the road. Here’s some common mistakes you should avoid if you get into a car accident.
What are some mistakes that could affect a personal injury case?
If you decide to file a personal injury claim later on, there are certain mistakes that could hurt your case. For example, you’re legally obligated to report all car accidents to the police, no matter how minor. If you and the other driver didn’t report the accident, this information could be used against you in court.
You’re also legally obligated to wait at the scene until the police arrive. If you drive away, you could be accused of leaving the scene of a crime. Additionally, you should refrain from posting on social media after a motor vehicle accident. It might seem unlikely, but the insurance company’s legal team might look through your social media accounts so they can find anything that allows them to deny your claim. This might be as simple as a picture of you hanging out with friends at the park, implying that your injuries weren’t as severe as you had alleged.
When should you hire an attorney?
You might want to hire an attorney as soon after the accident as possible. An attorney doesn’t just help you file a claim or pursue a lawsuit–they could also protect you from false accusations from the other party. For example, they could assist you if the other person’s insurance company tries to claim that you were at fault.