There is always a chance of a car accident whenever you are on the road. You are entitled to full compensation if the accident is due to the negligence or ignorance of the other driver. However, when you file a car accident claim, there is a high chance you will make a mistake resulting in a weak case. Therefore, it would be beneficial to consult car accident attorneys to avoid mistakes and win fair compensation. This article will discover the eight common mistakes people make when filing a car accident claim.
1. Not Informing the Police
Immediately call the police if you are involved in a car accident. They are trained to investigate an incident from every angle. Moreover, they collect evidence and locate witnesses who can prove helpful for your case.
2. Failure to Record Everything
It will be helpful if you get out of the car and take a picture of the accident if you are not seriously injured. If there were any witnesses, note down their names and addresses before leaving.
3. Not Consulting a Doctor
Trauma and shock following a car accident can lead many to refuse medical help. Usually, pain is numb by adrenaline, leading you to believe the injury is not severe, whereas some wounds take longer to appear. If you wait too long for medical help, you may lose your compensation claim.
4. Hiding Previous Accidents from the Lawyer
Notify your lawyer of any previous accidents because it will help them identify potential issues and determine the best course of action for your case. If the other driver finds out that you withheld information about a previous accident, he can shift the blame to you.
5. Not Hiring a Legal Advisor
Handling your injury claims by yourself can be a costly mistake. A car accident legal advisor will represent you in court and defend you against lawyers and insurance companies who may try to take advantage.
6. Not Following the Doctor’s Guidelines
It will be beneficial if you listen to your doctor and follow their advice strictly. If you do not listen, the defendant’s insurance company will argue that you were not injured in the accident and looking for a monetary benefit.
7. Lying to the Doctor
It’s advisable to be honest about the accident with your doctor. If the defendant’s insurance company finds out that you have lied about your injuries, they will begin to doubt your claims and look for ways to dismiss the case.
8. Agreeing to a First Settlement
The other party’s insurance company will contact you and offer you an immediate payment before talking to a car accident lawyer. Insurers want to settle car accident claims as soon as possible and for the least amount. While their offer may seem attractive at first, you must reject it.
To avoid car accidents, you must follow these tips to avoid mistakes but when you end up getting into one even after following these tips, make sure a professional legal consultant is by your side. Car accident claims are not easy to win; however, mistakes on your part can make the situation even worse. Consult an expert attorney and try to avoid the mistakes mentioned above.
