Each year, an estimated 2 million drivers in the United States suffer lifelong injuries as a consequence of an automobile collision. If you’re one of them, you may consider filing a personal injury claim. Filing car accident claims require knowledge and foresight. Continue reading to learn about seven of the most frequent auto accident claim errors and how to prevent them.
1. Not Getting Documentation of the Scene
It’s easy to underestimate the necessity of paperwork before filing car accident claims in the aftermath of an automobile accident, especially one that resulted in injuries. However, your first and most important move should always be to call the police. The police will issue a police report, which you may use to gather evidence to support your claim.
If at all feasible, take pictures and videos of the accident site. You should photograph the automobiles involved from several angles, as well as any location identifying information such as surrounding street signs and other signage. Without visual evidence, determining who was at blame will be considerably more difficult.
2. Not Seeing a Doctor Immediately
It is typical for automobile accident victims to believe they do not require immediate medical assistance. They may be free of apparent injuries such as bruises or cuts. They are also likely to be in shock, which can give brief relief from pain signals.
Regardless, seek medical assistance as soon as possible to acquire an accurate diagnosis of any injuries. This is critical to the result of both your health and your claim. Keep in mind that the major source of financial compensation in a car accident claim is for expenditures linked to your car accident injuries.
3. Putting Off Filing Car Accident Claims
Don’t wait to file your personal injury claim. The statute of limitations restricts the length of time a plaintiff has to file a lawsuit against a defendant. Unless you were not reasonably aware of the consequent injuries, the clock starts ticking at the time of the accident. In California, the statute is two years from the date of the accident. While the lawsuit does not have to be settled within that time, the suit must be filed before the two-year deadline.
4. Not Confiding with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
Personal injury claims, such as vehicle accident claims, are brought in civil court rather than criminal court. The vast majority of personal injury cases are settled out of court. Is this to say that hiring a lawyer to defend you isn’t necessary?
No.
While it may appear that the stakes are smaller and the regulations around a personal injury claim are less severe, the fact is that winning one still demands a thorough grasp of these sorts of cases. The defense will very certainly have legal representation provided by their insurance carrier, and you will need your own car accident lawyer to maximize your chances of obtaining recompense.
5. Not Collecting Evidence
You shouldn’t have to worry about making this error if you’re dealing with an experienced automobile accident attorney. Failure to gather the right auto accident claim documentation and proof, on the other hand, is a sure way to lose your claim, therefore it’s crucial to address.
You will also be required to provide proof of your injuries, medical costs, and any other sources of financial losses. This might include automobile damage, lost income, and any further emotional or mental harm you have suffered, like pain and suffering.
6. Talking to the Insurance Companies
Take advantage of your car accident lawyer after you’ve engaged one. They are there to assist you with legal advice every step of the way, which means they should be engaged in all claim pre-settlement conversations.
If the defendant’s insurance company contacts you, do not answer without first talking with your attorney. If they ask for any information, such as your medical records or any proof you’ve gathered, consult with your lawyer first. You don’t want to say or do anything that would jeopardize your prospects of earning complete compensation.
7. Accepting the First Offer You Recieve
If you and the other motorist exchanged information after an automobile accident, you will almost certainly hear from the other driver’s insurance company. If it’s obviously evident that the other motorist caused the collision, their insurance company may pay you money before you make a claim.
Resist the impulse to accept an early offer. It may appear more appealing to collect money now rather than later, but by accepting an early offer, you are waiving your ability to seek compensation for things like medical costs and lost income.
Avoid These Mistakes When Filing Car Accident Claims
If you’ve been in a vehicle accident, our law offices can help with your car accident case. Click here to schedule a 100% free consultation. A legal team member from Belmont Accident Lawyers can assist you.
