Accidents often occur on Virginia’s highways when drivers speed, drive distractedly, or use vehicles while impaired. Sometimes, rapid weather changes can also affect visibility, contributing to car crashes that leave victims confused and agitated.
In that state of disorientation, one can easily make rushed decisions that attract several consequences. To prevent further damage, you need to know the actions that can cause complications. Keep reading to discover some of the most common mistakes some Virginians make after being involved in car accidents.
Not Calling the Police Immediately
There are many modes of transportation in Virginia, so accidents are common. However, people sometimes make the mistake of assuming it’s unnecessary to inform the police, especially when there are no casualties or damaged property.
It’s important to inform the police so they can visit the scene, document the incident, and create an official report. A police report is vital and can serve as evidence when determining fault. It’s also helpful in settling disputes and supporting insurance claims.
Admitting Fault at the Scene
Regardless of whether you were speeding or driving unattentively before an accident, never admit blame. Several times, people say things that others can interpret as them taking responsibility. These statements are risky, as a lawyer or insurance company can use them to argue fault and liability in court.
If you’re an aspiring resident of Virginia, note that it’s not in your place to figure out who caused a crash. The authorities will make the findings during the investigation. Instead of speculating, exchange insurance details and vehicle registration numbers with the other party.
Ignoring Evidence Collection
While drivers should gather as much evidence as they can from accident scenes, some zoom off without even a picture. This action is one of the worst mistakes, as opportunists may alter or tamper with the evidence to implicate the other party.
Since Virginia follows the contributory negligence rule, a lack of evidence to prove your case could result in a total loss of compensation. Hence, if you want to protect your rights, collect visual, written, or recorded evidence before leaving the scene.
Waiting Too Long to Take Legal Action
Some accident victims assume that they have enough time to focus on recovery before filing a claim. In reality, the time is not that long, as the statute of limitations for car accidents in Virginia begins running from the day of the accident.
While exceptions exist in cases where the victim is mentally incapacitated or a minor, delaying legal action still makes it harder to avoid complications. Contact a Hampton car accident lawyer or a reputable attorney within Virginia immediately after an accident to help you pursue compensation.
Assuming Minor Accidents Don’t Have Major Consequences
Some Virginians assume that seemingly minor accidents don’t have serious consequences. However, that’s wrong, as even a fender bender can cause whiplash or soft tissue injuries.
Beyond bodily damage, minor accidents can also affect the vehicle’s frame, suspension, engine, or other parts. Sometimes, these hidden damages are expensive to fix, and the condition of the affected person or vehicle may worsen with time.
Endnote
If you get into an accident in Virginia, how you handle the aftermath can affect your finances and legal rights. You must avoid mistakes such as failing to inform the police, admitting fault, and ignoring evidence. Don’t delay before you take legal action or assume there are no consequences for your involvement in an accident.
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