Taking the Right Steps After an Accident
On average, a driver will be involved in four accidents during their lifetime. Since collisions can be unavoidable, it is crucial that you know what to do after the fact, and especially what not to do to avoid exacerbating the situation. If you have been in an auto accident, our Memphis, TN auto accident lawyer is here to help you avoid mistakes as you pursue compensation for your injuries. Here are three things to avoid if you find yourself in a car accident.
Do Not Drive Away
No matter how minor the accident may appear, you are always required to stop as soon as you are safely able to. Continuing to drive after an accident may result in criminal charges such as failure to stop and render aid or a hit-and-run.
Additionally, any accident that causes more than $50 in damage to the vehicle must be reported to the police. Depending on the circumstances of the accident you may also be required to report it to the Department of Safety, such as if the accident results in injury, death or more than $400 in damages.
You must report your accident to the DOS in a maximum of 20 days using form SF-0395, or risk your driver’s license and vehicle registration being suspended. Hiring an auto accident lawyer in Memphis TN from Darrell Castle and Associates, PLLC will expedite this process and protect you from incurring any additional legal penalties.
Do Not Discuss the Accident with Other Parties
While chatting with the other parties at the scene while you wait for police can be tempting, you might accidentally incriminate yourself. Anything you say, or fail to say, when going over what happened to cause the accident could inadvertently make it seem as if you’re at fault. The only questions you are obligated to answer are the ones posed to you by police.
You should also never speak to the opposing driver’s insurance company alone. Direct them to your auto accident lawyer in Memphis TN; remember their goal is to try and clear their driver of blame and that means pinning it on you.
Do Not Delay Reporting Damage or Injury
In Tennessee, you are allotted one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury, and three years to file a lawsuit for property damage. If you are suffering from an injury consult with a doctor as soon as possible. This both prevents the injury from becoming more serious and helps Darrell Castle and Associates, PLLC tie the injury to the accident.
Remember that not all injuries are physical. Suffering from anxiety, depression or PTSD is common after a traumatic accident. Report any mental crises and resulting treatment to your auto accident lawyer in Memphis TN so they are included in your case.
Contact Our Memphis Auto Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been the victim of an auto accident in Memphis, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our team will help you avoid these key mistakes and take the right steps towards recovering the compensation that you deserve. Contact Darrell Castle & Associates today.