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Monterey Personal Injury Lawyer > Blog > Car Accidents > Do’s And Don’ts After A Monterey Car Accident

Do’s And Don’ts After A Monterey Car Accident

Dos&Donts

Car accidents in Monterey happen suddenly and when least expected. Most motorists can go many years without being involved in any type of crash, so you may be in shock in the aftermath and unsure of what to do next.

Unfortunately, how you handle the situation at the crash site and in the days to come could have major impacts on your rights to compensation. To protect yourself and get the maximum amount you are entitled to in a claim, our car accident attorney in Monterey recommends following some simple dos and don’ts.

What To Do When A Car Accident In Monterey Happens

Even if you are an experienced motorist and pride yourself on your defensive driving skills, car accidents in Monterey can still happen due to the reckless behavior of others. Statistics from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) indicate over 2,000 people are hurt in Monterey County car accidents each year.

It is important to know what to do if a collision happens. Reviewing best practices now can help ensure you are protected if the time comes. Our experienced Monterey auto accident lawyer recommends following these steps:

  • Notify the police immediately;
  • Get the names of other drivers involved and their driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and insurance numbers;
  • Gather evidence at the scene, such as contact information for witnesses and photos of your injuries;
  • Seek medical care and follow all of your doctor’s instructions;
  • Notify your insurer;
  • Make sure an SR-1 traffic accident report is filed, which is required for any car accident resulting in personal injuries or property damages.

What Not To Do In The Aftermath Of A Monterey Car Crash

A car accident can result in serious personal injuries and a mountain of medical debts, lost wages, and other costs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), even a minor crash could cost tens of thousands of dollars. Major collisions can easily reach six figures or more.

While car accident costs could impact you and your family for years into the future, you only have one chance to get compensation. To protect your rights, there are certain things you should not do in the aftermath of a crash. These include:

  • Do not accept any immediate settlement offered by the at-fault driver at the scene;
  • Do not make any statements admitting even partial liability for the crash;
  • Do not downplay your injuries, fail to seek medical care, or disregard your doctor’s instructions regarding treatment and activity restrictions;
  • Do not return to work until cleared by your doctor;
  • Do not make any statements to insurers or sign any documents without having a lawyer present.

Request A Consultation With Our Monterey Car Accident Lawyer Today

Getting in a car accident, truck accident, or any vehicular accident in Monterey can impact your health and financial security for years afterward. To protect yourself and your rights in a claim, get the Allen Law Firm on your side. Call or contact us online and request a consultation with our Monterey car accident lawyer today.

Sources:

ots.ca.gov/media-and-research/crash-rankings-results/

dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv-virtual-office/accident-reporting/

crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/#!/PublicationList/53

Related:

How to Get a Car Accident Report in Monterey, CA

Delayed Pain After an Accident in California

The California Car Accident Settlement Process in 9 Steps

How Long Does an Accident Insurance Claim Take?

How to Calculate Compensation After an Accident in CA

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