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Auto Accidents

Common Mistakes Drivers Make After An Auto Accident

The following are common mistakes that I observe auto accident victims make on a regular basis that you can avoid.

Written By
Published On
October 9, 2025

When you are involved in an auto accident that is not your fault, you are considered the victim of the accident. It is important to preserve your legal rights to the fullest recovery possible. As a Milwaukee car accident lawyer, the following are common mistakes that I observe auto accident victims make on a regular basis that you can avoid.

1. Not calling law enforcement after an auto accident.

After an auto accident, it is important to contact law enforcement so an official investigation is conducted of the accident.  When you report an auto accident to the police, an officer will generally respond to the scene and investigate how the accident occurred.  Additionally, law enforcement will routinely create an accident report which contains important information relating to the accident.

2. Not taking photographs of the auto accident.

Taking photographs of the scene of the accident and damage will help preserve evidence of how the accident occurred.  Many people carry smart phones, which allow them to take photographs at the scene.  It is important that all car damage be photographed before the cars are moved.  The scene of an auto accident may change the following day.  Additionally, any and all injury photographs should be taken to document injuries.

3. Not obtaining auto accident witness information.

In many cases, there are witnesses at the scene of an auto accident. Unfortunately, auto accident victims often fail to obtain the contact information of individuals who witness the auto accident.  Witness statements can preserve evidence relating to how the accident occurred, along with their observations as to the accident scene and the injuries you sustained.

4. Not reporting your auto accident injuries.  

Auto accident victims often experience an adrenaline rush immediately following an accident.  For such reasons, you may be failing to report your injuries sustained in the accident.  It is important that your injuries be reported to law enforcement.  Additionally, you should seek any necessary medical treatment relating to your auto accident injuries.

5. Not providing an adequate statement to law enforcement about the accident.

When law enforcement responds to the scene of the accident, you should make sure that you clearly articulate your understanding of how the accident occurred to the officer.  Your statements following an accident are extremely important given the close  proximity to the accident.

6. Not obtaining contact information of the driver at fault.

You may feel sympathetic to the person who caused the auto accident.  However, you should remember that you are a victim in this matter.  By obtaining accurate and full contact information from this individual, you can hold hold him or her accountable for their actions.  

7. Not seeking medical treatment after your auto accident.

You may avoid seeking the appropriate medical attention you need to make a full recovery following an auto accident.  By seeking necessary medical treatment for your injuries, and following the recommendations of your medical doctors and providers, you will be able to make a full physical recovery. Moreover, your medical bills will help support any claim you have against the insurance of the driver who caused the accident.

8. Believing that the auto insurance companies are protecting your interests.

Insurance companies are seeking to resolve claims for as little as possible, as soon as possible.  They do not have an incentive to gain your trust, protect your legal rights, or maximize the financial recovery you are due.  For such reasons, you should always consult with a car accident lawyer before communicating with the insurance company of the driver at fault.

9. Not protecting your rights after an auto accident.

You should take the time to understand your legal rights following an auto accident that is not your fault.  You may be entitled to claim damages not only for property damage to you car, but also for medical bills, pain and suffering, and loss of earning capacity. A car accident attorney can help you preserve your rights and seek all the damages you deserve.

10. Signing paperwork with the insurance company.  

Be sure that you fully understand the paperwork and consult with a Milwaukee car accident lawyer before you sign anything.  For example, insurance companies will often request accident victims to sign medical authorizations.  However, these medical authorizations may not be in your best interest and will ultimately allow the insurance company to request any and all medical records from your past and present.  For such reasons, it is important that you consult an attorney before signing anything.  

11. Not contacting an auto accident attorney.  

If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, please consult a Milwaukee car accident lawyer.  This will relieve you of the stress and burden following an accident. It will allow you to focus on your injuries and treatment in order for you to reach an optimum recovery.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, you probably have a lot of questions. I offer free consultations for auto accident victims and will be happy to discuss your case. If you are unable to visit me in my office, I will come to you. Please call (414) 210-3834.

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