Tiemann Law Firm in Forbes Magazine

call for a free consultation

(916) 999-9000
Home > Accident Attorney > Five Things You Must Never Do after a Car Accident

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : July 21, 2022
REQUEST FREE CASE REVIEW

Posted on Monday, April 11th, 2016 at 12:30 am    

We spend a great deal of time discussing what you should do immediately after a car accident and in the days and weeks to come. We discuss how you must seek medical attention because your health should be your first priority. We also discuss how important it is to document the accident scene and gather information before at the accident scene, if possible.

Finally, we discuss how important it is to contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as you can to protect your right to receive compensation for your damages. However, there are some things that you should never do after a car accident.

The Don’ts of Car Accidents

  • DON’T leave the scene of the accident. If you are involved in a car accident never leave the scene before the police arrive. If the police do not come to the accident scene, never leave without exchanging information with the other driver. You can be charged with hit-and-run (a criminal charge) for leaving the scene of an accident.
  • DON’T get angry. Stay calm. Yelling, cussing, and accusing the other driver of causing the accident will only add to the tense, chaotic, and highly emotional atmosphere of an accident scene. It is easy to give into the highly charged, emotional atmosphere after an accident when you are confused, shaken up, and frustrated but fight the urge. Your actions immediately following an accident can impact a personal injury lawsuit. Stay calm, avoid showing signs of rage, and avoid using obscenities.
  • DON’T apologize or admit fault. It is human nature to say “I’m sorry” when we are involved in a car accident. However, saying you are sorry can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Never admit fault even if you believe you are at fault until you have met with an attorney. You may be able to receive partial compensation even if you are partially at fault for a car accident.
  • DON’T communicate with the other driver’s insurance company or attorneys. You should never provide a statement, recorded or written, without first meeting with a Sacramento car accident attorney. You should never sign a medical release or other documents without first meeting with an attorney. You could be providing the insurance company with exactly what it needs to deny your claim. It is in your best interest to consult with an attorney before doing anything — it is free to talk to our attorneys about your car accident.
  • DON’T settle a car accident claim without an attorney. The same applies to a settlement as it does a statement or release — consult with an attorney FIRST. Insurance companies love to offer low amounts to settle a case quickly before you can speak with an attorney. Do not make this mistake, especially when it does not cost you anything to talk to one of our attorneys.

Call An Experienced Car Accident Attorney

Contact Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 to schedule your free legal consultation with an experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney.

Categories: Accident Attorney

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Client Testimonials

Jennifer T. Testimonial
Quote

I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

S.B. Testimonial
Quote

Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.