Most often, a car accident leaves the victim quite upset and confused about what to do next. Finding oneself in such a situation, the victim makes few minor mistakes that can result in the removal of any legal claim he or she might have; or even losing the case entirely.
After an accident, it is advisable to stay calm and avoid making the following mistakes:
- Not Contacting the Attorney:
Delaying in contacting your personal injury attorney is another common mistake the victim makes. Like other personal injury cases, auto accident claims have a statute of limitations within which the victim must explain the car accident attorney about the accident. Your attorney then can talk to the insurance company on your behalf. Contacting the attorney soon enough helps you preserve the evidence as well as guides you about your rights and options as a victim.
- Not Seeking Immediate Medical Assistance:
Regardless of the fact that you haven’t seen any apparent bleeding or injuries on your body, go to the doctor after the car accident. Internal injuries such as a backache or whiplash appear hours or days after the accident. Apart from taking medical care, it is important to keep all the medical records or documentation and initial diagnosis as evidence to support your legit claim.
Another mistake is to skip the doctor visits or not following the instructions. This mistake can go against your claim of being severely injured leading you to lose the recovery money for the damages.
- Speaking to Other Party’s Insurance Company:
You should avoid talking to the other party’s or the driver’s insurance company. These companies try to settle the matter by giving a meager amount of money to the victim. In order to carry out their interest, they don’t consider the circumstances or relevant details regarding your claim. Even if they make an offer, don’t talk to them unless you have consulted your own attorney. Other than this, don’t give the insurance company any written statement or sign legal documents without the advice of your own attorney.
- Not Preserving the Evidence:
Never consider any detail or information unimportant or useless. This mistake can lead to losing your claims of personal injury and your ability to lose the recovery money. So, save any evidence you have such as photos, videos, medical records, receipts such as car rentals, vehicle repairs, medical care, any personal note, witness statement, or any other details or evidence related to the accident.
- Posting and Discussing the Accident on Social Media:
This is a very common mistake that people make after an accident. Posting the pictures on social media or updating status and making your accident public can go against your own claims of personal injury lawsuits. Especially, if your claim states that you are not able to lead a normal life or suffering from severe injuries whether physical or emotional. If you are observed posting pictures on social media during this whole time, the insurance companies can use this against your case. If you still need to use your social media accounts, control the content, access or privacy of your account.
It is much better and safe to stay as cautious as you can after a car accident and avoid the above-mentioned mistakes in order to claim and win your car accident personal injury lawsuit.
