Top Five Mistakes after a Car Accident
If you or someone you know has been in a car accident, you may be uncertain about what to do. There are several wise steps to take after a car accident but even more important is to avoid making some of the most common mistakes. Discover some of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident below.
- Admitting Fault
In everyday life, we apologize when we accidentally harm them. However, at the scene of an accident, apologizing can be seen as assuming liability and fault for the accident. Doing so can diminish your position in court and limit your ability to make a claim for your injuries and damages. Imagine the power of hearing someone in court apologize for an automobile accident; such testimony could be convincing evidence of your fault in the case.
- Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you are injured in a car accident, you need to address your medical needs right away. Firstly, doing so is cost-effective and can protect your health. Secondly, doing so provides medical records which will be helpful in resolving your claim. Finally, doing so preserves your claim. If you wait weeks or months before seeking treatment for your injuries or ailments, opposing counsel could claim that you were not injured the way you claim to be, or that you were actually injured doing some other activity.
- Failing to Document
One of the most important things you can do to preserve your automobile accident claim is to document, document, document. Take notes on everything you observe and recall, and note witness names, numbers, and addresses as well as insurance information. Keeping notes will not only help your recollection; they can provide evidence of your claim in court later on down the line. As you are taking notes, remember to take photos as well. Take photos of the scene, the road conditions, the vehicles involved, etc. Failing to document key evidence could be the difference between a loss and a victory in court.
- Settling for Less Than You Deserve
Settling your claim essentially closes out your case and ensures you will not receive any future recovery. Although you may want a quick settlement, the first offer you receive will be the lowest. Remember that the insurance companies want to pay as little as possible in settling your claim. Keep this in mind if your insurance company asks for a recorded statement or wants information from you about the accident. Always have an attorney review a settlement agreement before you sign it.
- Choosing the Wrong Attorney
There are many attorneys available to take claims to court. Many will claim that they are the best person for your automobile accident claim. However, you want an experienced professional at the helm. You wouldn’t get in a car driven by an inexperienced driver, so don’t allow your claim to be driven by someone without the requisite experience. Find an attorney with experience in car accident injury claims. Contact a dedicated Columbia car accident attorney today at The Stanley Law Group. Call 803-799-4700 and set up a consultation.
Resource:
cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/what-to-do-if-youre-in-a-car-accident
https://www.thestanleylawgroup.com/how-long-will-it-take-to-settle-my-car-accident-claim/
