Being in a car accident can be scary, painful and confusing. That’s why knowing what not to do after a car accident can be just as beneficial as knowing what to do: It can keep you from making seemingly small mistakes that could cost you a lot in the long run.
Driving while under the influence (DWI) is a serious offense that can have profound consequences. Just as in the aftermath of a car accident, knowing what not to do when facing a DWI charge is crucial. Seeking the guidance of a DWI lawyer is essential to navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights. These legal experts specialize in defending individuals accused of DWI offenses, providing invaluable support and strategic counsel throughout the legal process.
By avoiding common mistakes and pitfalls, such as speaking to law enforcement without legal representation or failing to understand the potential consequences of a DWI conviction, you can safeguard your future and mitigate the impact of the charges against you.
If you’re involved in a car crash in Milwaukee, the best thing that you can do is contact an experienced Milwaukee car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A good lawyer can help you protect your legal rights and advise you on how to deal with the insurance companies.
Do Not Panic
Although it can be hard to stay calm when you’re in the middle of an accident scene, it is vital that you do. Staying calm will help you think logically and respond to questions appropriately. If you start to feel yourself losing control, count to 10 and take a series of long, deep breaths.
Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you think the accident may have been your fault, do not (under any circumstances) make any admissions of fault to the other driver, to the police, or to anyone else at the accident scene. Not only could you be wrong, the other driver could use your statement against you later. If the other driver is argumentative or implies that the accident was your fault, politely tell the him or her to discuss the matter with your attorney.
Do Not Leave the Area
No matter how small the accident may seem to you, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident. If you leave the scene of an accident, you could be arrested on a criminal complaint. If you are in an accident, pull over and either exchange information with the other driver or wait for the police to arrive.
Do Not Make Any Oral Agreements
Sometimes an at-fault driver will offer to pay for damages upfront rather than involving the police or insurance companies. While this can be tempting, it is in your best interest to contact the police, your insurance company, and a qualified car accident attorney. Not only do you have no way to knowing whether the other driver even has insurance, you also have no way of knowing if they’ll really pay you either.
Forget to Get the Facts
One of the most important things that you can do after you’ve been in an accident is get all of the other driver’s information. This includes their name, address, insurance company name, policy number, vehicle information (such as make, model and color of car), and license plate number. If you can, get pictures of the crash site and damage to the vehicles too.
Forget to Call 911
Calling 911 is the first step to making sure that your accident is documented and recorded by a third party. The accident report that the police file serves as your proof that the accident happened. (Think about it: Without it, what proof would you have that the accident even happened?)
Get a Free Consultation with a Milwaukee Car Accident Lawyer
Personal injury lawyer Karl Gebhard offers free legal consultations for car accident lawsuits for both economic and non-compensatory damage claims. Because he works on a contingency basis, he does not accept any fees for his legal services until the case is won.
For your free consultation, call today at 414-873-6550