Car accidents can be a traumatic event for anybody in Southern California. Even a minor fender bender can be an extremely stressful situation. It can be easy to get flustered and angry at the other driver. When your emotions are running wild, it can sometimes be difficult to make good decisions. But it is important to keep your composure. When it comes to personal injury cases, making the right decision can make the difference between recovering the compensation you deserve. Here are some of the most common mistakes made by motor vehicle accident victims in Los Angeles.
It may seem like common sense, but not everybody thinks clearly after a car accident. One of the worst mistakes many motorists make is failing to stop after a crash. Driving away after an accident is against the law and can result in a hit and run charge. If the accident results in an injury, the hit and run driver could face additional charges which lead to significant time spent behind bars.
Whether you were a motorist during a car collision or a bystander, never move a person who has been seriously injured. It can often make the injury worse. It is always best to allow paramedics and emergency personnel to do their jobs.
Whether you have suffered an injury or had damage to your vehicle, it is vital to exchange contact and insurance information with the other motorist. Also, make sure to get the names and numbers of any witnesses at the accident scene. Failure to do so makes it virtually impossible to recover any compensation to pay for damages and can severely hurt your personal injury case.
Just about everyone in Southern California has a smartphone. It is vital to capture any visual evidence of the accident scene. Take plenty of photos and videos to properly document the accident.
One of the worst mistakes accident victims make is waiting too long to document their injuries. Many do not seek any medical attention at all. Even if your injuries appear to be minor, many serious car accident injuries can manifest much later. Seeking medical attention not only helps the victim get much-needed medical treatment, but properly documenting injuries is extremely beneficial to recovering the compensation needed to pay for medical bills and treatment.
It only takes one car accident to change your life forever. Many accident victims suffer from catastrophic injuries that may require a lifetime of medical care and treatment. Los Angeles personal injury lawyer Howard Craig Kornberg understands the challenges and obstacles facing his clients. He and his legal team utilize an aggressive and comprehensive approach to help protect the rights of each client and to always look after their best interest. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of others, contact the Law Offices of Howard Craig Kornberg and schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.