Mistakes to Avoid After an Accident
When you are injured in a car accident the way you respond to the event can have an impact on how your claim is handled. Everyone makes mistakes, and there are some common mistakes that people make after car accidents that you should try and avoid.
Failing to Call the Police
The other driver involved in an accident may try to keep the police out of the situation, but it is important to have the police on the scene. It may seem like a hassle, but you want to have the accident documented in a police report.
Admitting Guilt
It may be your natural instinct to resolve things quickly, and sometimes it’s just in your nature to apologize, even if you’re not actually at fault. You should never apologize after an accident as it can be seen as an admission of guilt.
Not Gathering Evidence
You’re probably in shock after your accident, but it’s important to keep a cool head and gather as much evidence as you can. Take pictures of the scene and the damage to any vehicles. Get contact and insurance information from the other driver. See if there are any eyewitnesses available and get their contact information. Gathering evidence can give your attorney a great place to start when they conduct their own investigation.
Skipping the Doctor
You may be tempted to avoid going to the doctor because you don’t feel like you were seriously injured. This is one of the most common mistakes people make. It is important to get medical attention, not only for your health but also to document any injuries you may have sustained. There may be injuries that you’re not even aware of and a doctor can help you figure that out.
Believing the Insurance Company
Insurance companies have an incentive not to pay out on claims and are not on your side. They may try to convince you that the settlement they are offering you is the best you can get. This is usually not the case. That’s why it can be useful to consult with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlements offered by the insurance company.
Waiting too Long to Consult with an Attorney
When it comes to car accident claims, time is of the essence. If you’ve been injured, you may decide to consult with an experienced car accident attorney. Evidence disappears, and there are deadlines to be met, so it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. This way you can focus on your recovery and let the attorney deal with the insurance company.
At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have over 30 years of experience handling car accident claims, and we know the steps involved. We’d be happy to help you so contact us online or call us at 800-538-4878 to set up your free, no-obligation consultation today.