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  "author": {
    "name": "Law Office of Brett Peterson",
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  "headline": "5 Mistakes to Avoid After an Auto Accident",
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    "name": "Law Office of Brett Peterson",
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  "articleBody": "After an auto accident, it’s easy to make missteps that could hurt your ability to get fair compensation. Here are five common mistakes to steer clear of: \n\n1. **Don't leave the scene without exchanging information.** Always get the other driver's contact, insurance, and vehicle details, and provide yours. Failing to do so can make it nearly impossible to pursue a claim.\n2. **Don't fail to report the accident to the police.** A police report provides an official, unbiased account of the incident, which is incredibly valuable for insurance claims and proving fault. Without it, it's often your word against theirs.\n3. **Don't delay seeking medical attention.** Even if you feel fine initially, adrenaline can mask pain. Seeing a doctor quickly ensures all injuries are documented and linked to the accident, preventing insurers from claiming they're unrelated or pre-existing.\n4. **Don't give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without legal advice.** Adjusters are trained to get you to say things that can be used against your claim. You're not obligated to give them a statement. Instead, refer them to your attorney.\n5. **Don't accept the first settlement offer without understanding its full value.** Initial offers from insurance companies are almost always lowball. They don't account for long-term medical needs, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Rushing to settle can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses down the road. \n\nNavigating these pitfalls on your own can be tough. That’s why having an attorney like Brett Peterson, who provides direct, hands-on representation, can make all the difference. He personally handles each case from start to finish, ensuring you don't make these common errors and your claim is properly valued.",
  "datePublished": "2026-08-25"
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