Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving victims shaken and uncertain about their next steps. In the chaos that follows, it’s easy to make decisions that could negatively impact your ability to recover compensation. At RHD Legal, we’ve seen how avoidable mistakes can hurt a case. To help protect your rights, here are the top 5 mistakes you should avoid if you’re involved in a car accident in North Carolina.

1. Failing to Report the Accident

One of the most critical steps after an accident is to call 911 and report the incident. In North Carolina, it’s required by law to report an accident if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Even if the accident seems minor, a police report creates an official record that can be invaluable later.

Why it matters:
Without an official accident report, it becomes much harder to prove the facts of the case. Insurance companies may use the lack of documentation to downplay your injuries or dispute the cause of the accident. When officers arrive, they will investigate the scene and file a report, giving you an objective record of the event.

2. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, you might feel fine or believe your injuries aren’t severe. However, some injuries—such as whiplash, concussions, or internal damage—might not present symptoms right away. Failing to seek medical attention could not only worsen your injuries but also undermine your ability to claim compensation later on.

Why it matters:
Insurance companies often argue that if you didn’t seek prompt medical care, your injuries must not have been serious. By getting checked out by a doctor immediately, you protect your health and create a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.

3. Admitting Fault or Apologizing at the Scene

It’s natural to feel shaken or anxious after an accident, and in such moments, many people instinctively apologize, even if they weren’t at fault. Saying things like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be interpreted as admitting fault, which could hurt your claim later.

Why it matters:
North Carolina follows the contributory negligence rule, which means if you are found even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. By staying calm and avoiding admissions of guilt, you allow the facts to be determined by evidence and legal representation, rather than your initial reactions.

4. Talking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice

After an accident, the other party’s insurance company will likely contact you quickly, asking for details about the accident or a recorded statement. It’s important to remember that insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not your interests. They may use tactics to get you to admit fault or downplay the extent of your injuries.

Why it matters:
Anything you say to an insurance company can be used to reduce your compensation. Common tactics include offering a lowball settlement or pressuring you to sign a release before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. Having an attorney on your side ensures that you’re protected from these ploys and can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

5. Not Collecting Proper Evidence

In the moments after a crash, you might be too shaken to think about gathering evidence. However, the more information you can collect, the stronger your case will be. Important evidence includes photographs of the scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries, as well as contact information for witnesses.

Why it matters:
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather critical evidence. Tire marks disappear, vehicles are repaired, and witnesses may forget details. If you’re able, take photos of the damage, the surrounding area (such as street signs, signals, and road conditions), and your injuries. This information can provide powerful support when proving fault and the extent of your damages.

Conclusion: Protect Your Rights and Recover What You Deserve

Being involved in a car accident is overwhelming, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the experienced team at RHD Legal is here to guide you through the legal process. We’ll ensure you receive the medical care you need and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact RHD Legal’s Raleigh Personal Injury Attorneys today for a Free Consultation:

Call us today at (919) 246-4001
Or Contact us via our online Contact Form

Don’t let a mistake after an accident jeopardize your right to compensation. Let us fight for you.