10 Mistakes People Make after a Car Accident Injury
Even a minor accident can cloud your judgment. But the way you act afterwards plays a big role in what happens later. Here are ten mistakes that could keep you from getting your needs met and your rights respected.
Not seeking medical attention. Never say, “I’m fine.” You can’t know because you may be in shock. Keep it to yourself until you’ve seen a doctor.
Saying “I’m so sorry.” You may just want to be nice, but unfortunately this can be used against you. Even if you think you’re to blame, hush! The details of an accident are more complicated than they appear.
Not contacting insurers.Why have insurance in the first place? Always exchange all insurance information, as well as names, contact info, license and registration, plate numbers, make and model, and information of everyone involved. Injuries can develop over time and not contacting insurers weakens your claim considerably.
Reluctance to call the police. The police are a vital independent voice. They are trained to objectively collect information from everyone involved.
Signing a release without contacting a lawyer. Insurance companies want to spend as little as possible and may try to make you compromise more than you should.
Not taking pictures. Document every aspect of the accident in as much detail as possible, from circumstances to damage to personal injury.
Blindly trusting your insurance provider. While insurance companies usually act in their client’s interests, their profit margins depend on finding ways to disburse as little as possible. Always ask questions.
Acting slowly. The longer you wait to do any of these things, the weaker your claim becomes.
Assuming you cannot recover damages if you contributed to the cause of the accident. In very few places in the U.S. is this true.
Failure to contact an attorney. Car accident attorneys are specialists who know exactly how to proceed, what to watch out for, and what your rights are. Not contacting an attorney can limit your monetary gains and / or cause you unnecessary stress for having to deal with everything on your own.
If you’ve been in a car accident and think you may be injured, contact West Coast Trail Lawyers today for your free, no-obligation consultation.
