What Car Accident Victims Should Avoid to Win Their Case

Car accidents can happen to anyone, even the most careful drivers. Every year, millions of accidents in America lead to serious injuries and even deaths. If you've been in one, you might be able to get compensation for your losses. But to do that successfully, it's crucial to avoid common mistakes that could hurt your case.

Too many people in Bakersfield make simple mistakes after a crash that cost them thousands of dollars or even their entire case.

Some rush into admitting fault, not realizing that even an innocent "I'm sorry" can be twisted against them.

Others fail to gather the right evidence, leaving them with nothing to support their claims. And with insurance companies always looking for ways to pay out as little as possible, you can't afford to give them an easy reason to deny your claim.

If, at any point, you are in doubt about the steps to take, consult an accident attorney in Bakersfield. This legal professional can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

With all of that said, here are the things car accident victims should avoid to win their case:

Never Leave the Scene 

No matter how minor the accident seems, never leave the scene until everything is properly documented. In California, leaving the scene of an accident, especially if someone is injured, is considered a hit-and-run, which can lead to criminal charges, hefty fines, and even jail time.

Even if you think there’s no real damage or injury, stick around until law enforcement arrives and the necessary reports are filed. If the other driver tries to convince you to "just exchange numbers and leave," don’t do it. You need an official record of the accident for your claim to be taken seriously.

Document Everything

Be sure to take photos of:

• The vehicles involved, from multiple angles

• Any visible injuries

• Skid marks, traffic signs, or signals

• The surrounding area (in case road conditions played a role)

Also, get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Their statements can help back up your side of the story if the other driver tries to change what happened later. And if the police come, ask for a copy of the accident report.

Be Careful About What You Say to Others at the Scene

After an accident, emotions run high. You might feel shaken up, confused, or even angry. But be careful what you say to the other driver, witnesses, or even bystanders.

Remember to also keep conversations minimal. Exchange necessary information and cooperate with the police, but don’t discuss blame or details beyond the facts. Never agree to any unofficial settlements at the scene because it’s too early to know the full extent of the damage or injuries.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance 

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible, but don’t give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters are trained to find ways to reduce or deny claims.

Stick to the facts, report the accident promptly, but avoid unnecessary details until you’ve spoken with legal counsel.

Don't Rush to Settle 

After an accident, you might feel pressure to settle quickly, especially if medical bills and car repairs are piling up. But be careful. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements in the hopes that you'll accept less than what is due to you.

Before agreeing to anything, consult with a lawyer. They can help determine whether the settlement offer is fair or if you should push for more.

Know Your Legal Deadlines 

In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you might lose your right to compensation altogether.

However, different rules may apply depending on the circumstances (for example, if a government vehicle was involved). To avoid missing crucial deadlines, consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.