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Top 5 Major Mistakes that Drivers Can Make After a Car Accident

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Last Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

Experiencing a car accident can be a traumatic incident for many people.Even though you may be shaken after an accident, there are some important things that you need to do so that you can minimize the aftermath. Forgetting to take pictures or videos, not obtaining contact information from the other driver, immediately speaking with the other driver’s insurance company, failing to contact the police and not contacting a lawyer, like a car accident lawyer trusts, are a few major mistakes that you can make after a car accident.

Failing to Notify the Police

After assuring that everyone involved in the incident is safe and that you have moved your car out of harm’s way, you should notify the police. The police will create a documented report about what occurred in the accident and if someone gets hurt or there is any type of damage to your and your other driver’s property. This will be very helpful as you begin to sort out the paperwork and claims from the accident.
Forgetting to Take Photos

Pictures can be the most important piece of evidence for your claim. Try your best to take pictures of the vehicles before anything has been towed away or taken away from the scene. Also, taking pictures of the other driver’s license and their insurance card. All physical damage to the vehicles should be photographed, and taking a video of of you speaking with the other drivers and any witnesses is a great asset for your claim as well. They will help determine who is at fault.

Failure to Get Contact Information

If you fail to get the other driver’s contact information, you will not be able to file a claim with them. Eyewitness testimonies are vital to determining what happened to cause the accident. Remember to get the name and phone numbers of all eye witnesses so that you and your attorney can contact them later to testify on your behalf.

Speaking with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

Avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company right away. You may still be in shock or pain whilst processing what happened. Many claim adjusters are trained so that they can make you admit something that you may regret later, like who you think is at fault. They may also want to tape your conversation; you have the legal right to reject this offer. You are not required to speak with the other driver’s insurance company before speaking to your own insurance company or even an attorney first.

Not Speaking with a Lawyer

In the event that you get into an accident, an attorney can provide you with advice on how to move forward. If someone was injured during the accident, speaking with an attorney can help you to understand how to proceed. They may advise that you ask for compensation for rehabilitation and emotional distress. A lawyer can give you legal advice if the insurance company offers you an unfair or low settlement or if they deny your claim.

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   Nancy Wallace 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking to do estate planning, go with Patterson Bray! They are excellent to deal with!
  
 
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   Cheryl Adkins 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
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   Deb Clark 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
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   Tanya White 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
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   Marva Johnson 
 74 days ago
 
 
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   Pam Nicole 
 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.

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