A car accident can leave you shaken, unsure of where to turn, and worried about what comes next. In the middle of dealing with police, doctors, and insurance companies, it is easy to overlook the details that matter most for your future. A seasoned car accident attorney who handles these cases can explain your rights, point out the mistakes people often make, and give structure to what may feel like chaos.
Choosing a private firm provides the benefit of individual attention. Instead of managing deadlines or negotiating with an insurer on your own, you can rely on The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs, whose attorneys are familiar with state law and local courts. While no lawyer can promise a specific outcome, working with legal counsel often brings clarity, reduces unnecessary risk, and ensures that you take each step with care. Learn about mistakes to avoid after a Cordova car accident and how a lawyer’s guidance can help.
Which Rules Often Cause Trouble?
The state’s accident laws are clear, and the penalties for ignoring them can be severe. Drivers must stop, share information, and provide reasonable assistance under statutes §§ 55-10-101 to 103. Failure to do so can create both criminal and civil problems.
Notice requirements are also strict. Statute § 55-10-106 requires drivers to contact law enforcement if there is an injury or minor property damage. The Department of Safety also requires a written report within 20 days when an injury, death, or damage of $1,500 or more occurs. Many people forget this step and face obstacles later in their claim.
Deadlines are another trap. Most personal injury claims only have a one-year statute of limitations under § 28-3-104. If an injured individual misses that date, they lose their claim. Comparative fault rules also apply. The individual’s percentage of fault reduces recovery, and if they are 50 percent or more responsible, they cannot recover at all. Avoidable errors that Cordova residents make after a vehicle wreck include the following:
- Waiting too long to call the police or file the required report
- Posting about the accident on social media, where insurers may find it
- Repairing or discarding a vehicle before documenting damage
- Agreeing to a recorded statement without advice from counsel
- Skipping medical follow-ups and leaving gaps in the treatment record
They can also represent the client in court if settlement negotiations fail to achieve a fair outcome.
How Local Lawyers Can Help Protect an Injured Person’s Rights
David and Elissa are experienced with Cordova car accident cases and can help an injured client avoid common errors by:
- Preserving crucial evidence
- Ensuring timely completion of required reports
- Tracking the one-year filing deadline
- Reviewing how comparative fault may apply
- Preparing arguments that protect the client’s interests during settlement negotiations.
For anyone seeking to prevent mistakes after a motor vehicle wreck, the most practical advice is simple—gather and save evidence, seek prompt medical care, and keep every receipt and record. Let a lawyer handle communication with insurers. These steps often make the difference between a case that moves smoothly and one that stalls.
Contact a Cordova Attorney To Prevent Costly Errors After a Vehicle Crash
If you are unsure what to do next, legal counsel can answer your questions about which actions you should take, as well as the common mistakes to avoid after a Cordova car accident. An attorney can explain your obligations, ensure you meet deadlines, and take on the burden of negotiating with the insurer.
If you need clarity about your options, contact us at The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs today for a free case evaluation.
