(ThyBlackMan.com) It’s crucial for anyone involved in a car accident to take steps to protect themselves. But there are also common mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting compensated adequately, so it pays off (literally!) to be informed and avoid mistakes – this means filing the right reports, seeking medical attention ASAP, and collecting necessary data from witnesses or other parties.
1. Failing to Call the Police and File a Report
As dwpersonalinjurylaw.com explains, a police report is an invaluable asset in the event of an accident, supplying crucial evidence such as the when and where alongside essential details to help identify who was responsible. These records can make or break a claim or lawsuit, guaranteeing justice prevails.
Additionally, a police report can provide information about any citations or charges that were filed due to the accident, which can also be used as evidence in a claim.
2. Not Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is important because some injuries may not immediately appear.
For example, you may have suffered a concussion, whiplash, or other soft tissue injuries that may not show up until days or weeks later. If you don’t seek medical attention, it can be difficult to prove that your injuries resulted from the accident. It may also delay your recovery and potentially worsen your injuries.
3. Admitting Fault or Apologizing
Even when you think you may have been at fault for the accident, avoiding admitting fault or apologizing is important because this can be used against you in a claim or lawsuit. The other driver, insurance company, or attorney may use your admission of fault or apology as evidence that you were responsible for the accident.
Remain calm and avoid making statements or actions that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Instead, focus on gathering information and collecting evidence at the accident scene. Also, stick to the facts and don’t speculate on what may have caused the accident.
4. Not Collecting Contact Information from Witnesses
Witnesses can provide valuable information and testimony about what happened during the accident, which can be used as evidence in a claim or lawsuit. They can provide details of what they saw, heard, or experienced.
Include their names, phone number, and email address. It’s also a good idea to ask them to provide a statement or write down what they saw. This information can be valuable later if a claim or lawsuit is filed.
5. Not Taking Photographs of the Accident Scene
Photography can provide important visual documentation of the accident, including the location, the damage to the vehicles, and the conditions at the time of the accident, such as weather and road conditions. This evidence supports a claim or lawsuit and helps establish who was at fault for the accident.
This should include wide-angle shots of the entire scene and close-ups of any damage. Taking photographs of any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained is also a good idea. Take photographs as soon as possible after the accident while the scene is still fresh and before any vehicles are moved.
6. Not Contacting Your Insurance Company as Soon as Possible
Not contacting your insurance company may delay your claim’s processing and negatively impact your coverage.
Additionally, some insurance policies have strict reporting requirements that must be met to be eligible for coverage. Failing to report an accident promptly could result in denying your claim.
7. Not Keeping Track of Any Expenses Related to the Accident
Not keeping track of expenses related to an accident can make it difficult to accurately document the damages and costs associated with the accident when filing a claim with your insurance company. This could result in a lower settlement or reimbursement for your expenses.
Track expenses such as medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses incurred due to the accident. This includes keeping receipts, invoices, and any other documentation that can be used to support your claim.
8. Accepting a Settlement Offer Too Quickly Before Consulting with an Attorney
An attorney can help you understand the full extent of your damages and losses and advise whether the settlement offer is fair and reasonable. Additionally, an attorney can help negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Once you accept a settlement, you will likely be unable to seek additional compensation for the same damages and losses.
These steps ensure that your claim is handled promptly and efficiently, that you receive a fair settlement, and that you are fully compensated for the damages and losses you have incurred as a result of the accident. It’s always recommended to seek legal advice before making any decisions regarding your case.
Staff Writer; Harry Parker