While most of us hope we never have to experience a car accident, the reality is that they happen. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious crash, there are critical mistakes to avoid after a car accident that can jeopardize your claim.
For many drivers, the aftermath of a car wreck is a blur, and it’s easy to forget the essential steps needed to protect your legal rights.
Unfortunately, making the wrong move can lead to complications down the road.
Many people don’t know what not to do after a car accident. From leaving the scene too quickly to speaking with insurance adjusters without guidance, there are common missteps that can be costly.
It’s essential to be aware of these pitfalls and to understand that your initial instinctive reactions may not always be best for your claim.
The aftermath of an accident is a critical time, and knowing how to navigate it can make all the difference in securing the compensation you’re rightly owed.
Common Mistakes That Can Impact Your Car Accident Claim
Below, we walk you through some common mistakes to avoid after a car accident:
1. Failing to Call the Police
Many drivers believe that they don’t need to involve law enforcement if the accident seems minor. However, failing to file a police report is a mistake to avoid after a car accident.
Insurance companies rely on these reports to determine fault, and not having one can significantly weaken your claim. Always call the police, even if the damage appears minimal. A police report provides crucial documentation that supports your case.
2. Not Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.
Failing to see a doctor could give insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries aren’t related to the accident.
3. Failing to Gather Evidence
After an accident, it’s easy to be overwhelmed and forget to gather essential evidence.
However, evidence collected at the scene is often crucial to your case. If you’re physically able, take pictures of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
Furthermore, get the contact information of witnesses and document the weather and road conditions. Without this evidence, it can be much harder to prove your claim later.
4. Admitting Fault
Another critical mistake is admitting fault, even if you believe you might have caused the accident. In the heat of the moment, many drivers apologize, thinking they are being polite.
However, an apology can be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Insurance companies may use these statements against you to deny or reduce your claim.
Instead, stick to the facts when talking to the other driver, the police, and insurance companies.
Let the investigation determine fault.
5. Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Too Soon
After an accident, you’ll likely be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. While it’s important to notify your insurer, you should avoid giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer without first speaking to an attorney.
Insurance adjusters may try to get you to downplay your injuries or admit partial fault. Anything you say can be used against you. It’s better to let your attorney handle communication with the insurance company to protect your claim.
6. Not Contacting an Attorney As Soon As Possible
Drivers often wait too long to contact an attorney after a car accident, because they think they can handle the situation on their own, or because they are hoping that the insurance company will be fair.
Unfortunately, insurance companies are usually more interested in protecting their bottom line than ensuring that people get the compensation they deserve. Contacting a car accident attorney early ensures that you have a professional fighting for your rights and helps you avoid critical errors.
Compensation that You Are Entitled to After a Car Accident
Here are the types of compensation you may be able to seek after a car accident:
- Medical Expenses: After an accident, you might incur hospital bills, or bills for doctor visits, physical therapy, or medication. If you have long-term medical needs due to the accident, you can also seek compensation for these future expenses.
- Lost Wages: You can claim compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working. This includes not just the days you missed but also any future earnings.
- Property Damage: Accidents often damage your vehicle, and can harm other personal property. You can claim the cost of repairs to your personal property or the value of your car if it’s a total loss.
- Pain and Suffering: You can also seek compensation for pain and suffering. This refers to the emotional distress and physical pain caused by the accident. Pain and suffering can be more challenging to quantify, but it is an essential part of your claim.
How a Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
The first way our Greenville car accident lawyers will help you is by listening to your story. Every accident is unique, and we believe that understanding the specific details of your case is essential to building a strong claim. We will take the time to discuss the circumstances of your accident, your injuries, and the impact on your life.
Furthermore, we will assist you in gathering essential evidence to support your claim. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographs from the accident scene.
Strong evidence can make a world of difference in demonstrating the severity of your injuries and establishing liability. Our team knows exactly what information is necessary to build a compelling case and will work to ensure nothing is overlooked.
We will also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they often employ tactics that can undermine your claim. We can level the playing field. We will handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring they do not take advantage of you during this vulnerable time. Our goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
If your case requires it, we are fully prepared to take your claim to court. While most cases settle outside of court, there are times when litigation becomes necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Greenville Car Accident Lawyers Today
Our Greenville car accident lawyers are unafraid to advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury. We will prepare your case, presenting compelling arguments and evidence to fight for your best interests.
At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we’ve helped countless clients tackle the complexities of car accident claims, and we’ve seen the impact of these mistakes firsthand.
If you have questions or need guidance, contact our car accident lawyers. We’re here to listen, support you, and help you reclaim your peace of mind as you take the necessary steps toward healing and resolution.
Contact our Greenville car accident attorneys at 864-271-2636 for a free consultation.