Magnuson Lowell Blog
Each week we post a blog about relevant legal issues. Glance through our various topics to learn more about a particular legal situation.
These articles are for limited informational purposes only and are not, nor are they intended to be, legal advice. You should not rely on this information for your case and should consult with an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
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- Reconciling After a Divorce Filing
- Dividing Retirement in Divorce - Do I Need a QDRO?
- Options for Dealing with Real Estate in Your Washington State Divorce
- Filing for Immediate Restraining Orders in King County
- Obtaining and Collecting Child Support in Washington State
- Using Trial by Affidavits to Modify Support
- (Redmond/Criminal Defense) Time Matters for a DUI
- (Redmond/Criminal Defense) Field Sobriety Tests - What Not to Do
- (Redmond/Criminal Defense) - The (Redmond/Criminal Defense) - The Ability to Remain Silent
- Battling Father Time: Crafting Your Legacy with Precision
- Tips for Talking to Your Family About Your Estate Plan
- How to Choose Your Personal Representative for your Will
- Renewing a Domestic Violence Protection Order in Washington State
- Little Known Washington Driving Laws
- What`s the Deal with Prenuptial Agreements?
- When to Call it Quits During Mediation
- Legal Implications of Dating During a Divorce
- Should You Keep the Financial Status Quo During Your Divorce?
- Why Expediency is Important After Your Car Accident
- Understanding Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) in Washington State
- It only takes 3 seconds...
- Gotta love our court system!
- (Redmond/Crazy Lawsuit) The Walking Dead: or Not!
- (Redmond/Crazy Lawsuit) Here Comes Football - and Litigation
- Honoring Our Heroes: A Thank You to All Who Have Served!
- Happy Halloween from Magnuson Lowell
- 10 Tips You Need To Know Before Getting On A Motorcycle
- Top 10 Tips You Need To Know Before Getting On A Motorcycle
- Top 10 Tips Riders Need To Know Before Getting On A Motorcycle
- In a Car Collision...Now What?
What NOT to Do if You Get into a Car Accident
A while back I described what you should do in the unfortunate situation if you get into a car accident. Every once in a while, we run into people who go far and beyond what they should do, into the realm of actions you should never take when you get into a car accident. Here are a few things to remember NOT to do in the future:
1. NEVER leave the scene of the accident. Despite your desire to immediately flee the scene of the accident, you must vehemently repress your impulses. It is a crime to leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident.
2. NEVER apologize to the other driver. While your parents may have taught you to always politely apologize when you have done something wrong; in this situation, while you think you may be at fault - in actuality, you may not be. These sorts of admissions may be admissible in court and can make you liable for the car accident.
3. NEVER get angry. If the accident was your fault, losing your cool and cursing at the other driver is the quickest way to get a lawsuit brought against you. Not only will the other driver look down upon you, but so will any future jury.
4. NEVER speak directly with the insurance company or attorney of the other driver. The other insurance company and attorney will do their best to drill you for information they should not be privy to. This is what your own attorney is for. Once you are represented, it is improper for the other side to contact you directly.
5. NEVER take the first offer of settlement. The opposing insurance company will investigate the accident and (if their insured is at fault) may offer you a ludicrously low amount of money as compensation for your injuries. While you may not be able to get much more than their initial offer, negotiation is your's (and your attorney's) best friend to maximize your settlement.