What Not to Do After a Car Accident
While a car accident is a traumatic event, it is important to remember that the things you do following an accident can impact any claim you may have. Here are a few things you should remember not to do after an accident:
Leave the Scene
Regardless of whether the crash looks serious, you should always stop, check on the other person, exchange insurance information, and contact the police.
Lose Your Cool
You may be tempted to engage in an argument or yell at the other driver. It’s important to keep your cool and gather information.
Fail to Call the Police
You should always call the police after a crash. Police accident reports can be crucial in any car accident claim. It contains valuable information such as road conditions, names and contact information of any witnesses, and an official write-up of how the accident occurred.
Admit Liability
You should never admit any fault to anyone at the scene or an insurance adjuster. These statements can be used against you later.
Fail to Gather Information at the Scene
Before leaving the scene, you should gather as much information as possible. Take cellphone pictures of the vehicles involved, the scene including any street signs and any injuries. Take down the names and insurance information of all the people involved. Try to locate any witnesses and get their contact information.
Fail to Get Medical Care
Even if you feel like you have not been seriously injured, you should always seek medical attention after a car accident. You must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to file a claim for PIP.
Give a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Adjuster
Insurance adjusters may try to get you to say something that can affect your ability to recover what you deserve.
Accept an Unfair Settlement
Insurance companies will try to get you to settle your claim for as little as possible. It is risky to accept a settlement without consulting an experienced car accident attorney in Florida first.
Delay in Calling an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
It is important to contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as you can in the process. A lawyer can help you collect evidence and deal with the insurance companies for you.
The experienced car accident attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk are here to help. Schedule your free consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at 1-800-538-4878.