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Being involved in a car accident can be stressful. The traumatic experience can be disorienting, and you may feel rattled or confused. If you’ve been seriously hurt, you might not know what to do next. Because of this uncertainty, it’s common to unknowingly make mistakes after a car crash. These errors can prove costly, especially when trying to recover damages. That’s why it’s important to seek sound legal advice. A skilled lawyer can act as your guide and help you get the compensation you deserve.
By understanding and avoiding these common pitfalls, you can increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement so that you can get back on track following a car crash.
Common Mistakes After Anderson, SC, Crashes
These are the most common mistakes people make after they are injured in a car accident. Avoiding these missteps can improve your chances of being compensated by the negligent driver when you have been injured.
Failing to Get Proper Medical Attention
One of the first and most important things to do after a car accident is to get medical assistance. If anyone is hurt, their well-being is priority number one. Call an ambulance for emergency medical attention at the scene of the accident. The paramedics can best assess and treat injuries immediately. If hospital care is needed, they can help with that too.
Not getting medical help is one of the most common mistakes people make after a car crash. Even if you don’t think you’ve been hurt, make an appointment with your doctor. They can complete a medical report to summarize your injuries. This documentation is important for any personal injury claim you may pursue. Don’t be so eager to resume your normal life as soon as possible. If you delay medical help, this may weaken your claim.
Also, remember to file your medical bills with your health insurance if you have coverage. Otherwise, you may be on the hook for out-of-pocket expenses.
Talking Directly With Insurance Adjusters
This common error applies both to your insurer and the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Any statement you make on the record becomes evidence. Be very careful with any phone conversations, especially if they are recorded. The other insurer is not on your side. Their goal is to reduce their own liability. They don’t want to pay if they don’t have to.
Instead, before you talk to any insurance adjusters, connect with a skilled lawyer. They can speak on your behalf. Dealing with insurance companies can be deceiving. An experienced attorney will know about your legal rights and keep your best interests at heart. This is true with written documents too. Do not sign any paperwork until you’ve discussed it with your lawyer.
The other insurance company may ask you to sign a medical release. This is so they can look at your medical history. They may try to pin your injuries on a pre-existing condition. Don’t let this happen.
Discussing the Case on Social Media
It’s important to understand that anything you post on social media may be used against you in a personal injury claim. The other party can use your posts as evidence.
You may be understandably upset after being hit by a drunk driver, for instance. You may be tempted to air your grievances online. Resist that urge. Don’t discuss the accident or your injuries online. Insurers, lawyers, judges, and others may see and misconstrue your words. Even if you delete the post, it is likely archived somewhere. A social media post can be equivalent to a recorded statement.
Neglecting to Gather and Keep Evidence
Another common error is the reverse of some of the above mistakes. Giving evidence that can be used against you can undermine your case. Also, failing to gather evidence can weaken your case. Remember to keep all supporting evidence.
Take pictures at the scene of the crash, if you can. Make sure these photos are backed up. Get a copy of the accident report from the police. Keep a detailed record of medical treatments and bills. Did you miss work as a result of your injuries? Log those missed hours and pay. Your lawyer can advise you on what records to keep. They can also help you submit your evidence to your insurer. Keep your own copies of everything.
Proceeding Without an Experienced Lawyer
While you have the option to go it alone, this is not prudent. Navigating a car accident claim can get messy. The other insurance company is not working in your best interest. They want to undermine your case and minimize their liability. You need a knowledgeable attorney in your corner who can build the strongest case possible for you.
An experienced lawyer can help every step of the way. They can answer any questions you may have. Do you know how long you have to file a personal injury claim? What happens if the other party is uninsured? A skilled attorney can argue and negotiate on your behalf, fighting for the fair compensation you deserve with every legal tool available. They’ll know your rights and protect your interests.
