Whether you have been caught up in a minor fender-bender or a major auto accident, getting involved in a car accident can be an extremely chaotic and traumatic experience. If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injury and property damage.
However, the stressful nature of car accidents can increase the likelihood of you making some costly mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting the compensation you deserve for your damages. Keep in mind that the insurance companies involved in your claim are potential adversaries out to ensure that they pay you as little as possible for your damages.
Here are common mistakes you need to avoid in the aftermath of the accident to secure your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Failing to seek treatment for your injuries
The effect of the impact of a wreck on your body can be enormous. Think about being pushed, pulled and shoved in multiple directions all at once. This kind of force can cause serious injuries. Soft tissue injuries do not always manifest right away. It is not unusual to feel fine moments after the accident. However, the longer you put off seeing the doctor for examination and treatment, the greater the chances are that the at-fault party’s insurance company will argue that your injuries had nothing to do with the accident. You may end up having your claim reduced or even dismissed altogether.
Issuing a recorded statement to the insurance company
The defendant’s insurance company will likely call you within hours following the accident to ask for a statement. Most often, this statement will be designed to lead you into making admissions that will give the insurance reasons to dispute your claim on grounds of contributory negligence. It is important that you talk with your legal representative immediately after the accident and obviously before agreeing to talk to the insurance company.
While car accidents happen all the time, most people are never aware of what to do (and what not to do) if they are involved in one. The result is, they end up making mistakes that eventually hurt their ability to secure full and fair compensation for their damages.
