Actions to avoid after an auto accident

When you get hurt in an auto accident, some mistakes can compromise your ability to seek justice. Even when another driver has clear fault, his or her insurance company may attempt to limit your economic recovery.

Avoid these errors after a serious auto accident to protect your financial interests.

Lack of evidence

After an accident, you or a friend should document the incidents surrounding the crash as closely as possible. When you have an injury and you cannot act, ask a trusted person to take video and photo of the scene, write down the contact information of the other drivers, gather insurance information, seek eyewitness accounts from bystanders, and get the contact information for the police officers at the scene so you can later obtain the police report.

Delayed medical care

Anytime you get in a car accident, call 911. Not only do you have a legal obligation to report the accident, but you also may have injuries that do not appear right away. Even severe issues such as traumatic brain injury can arise in the weeks and months after the crash.

Admission of fault

You have no obligation to talk to the other driver’s insurance company. In fact, you should always avoid doing so. Even if you believe the other driver’s actions caused the crash, an insurance adjuster may attempt to get you to admit to fault in the accident. Share limited information or have an attorney or your own insurance provider deal with the adjuster on your behalf.

In Illinois, you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a disabling car accident.