After a car accident, emotions are often running high. This can make it hard to think clearly and take the right steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. It's important to avoid mistakes that could be costly later on. Here are 5 mistakes people often make after a crash that should be avoided.
Getting Angry
Of course being upset after a traumatic event is a natural reaction, but it's best to remain as calm as possible. Treat other drivers and passengers involved politely, and avoid confrontation and blaming. Questions by police officers should be answers with basic statements of fact, not opinions. Winter Haven accident attorneys strongly recommend that you not make apologies or admit fault in any way.
Refusing Treatment
Not all injuries are evident immediately after a car crash. While you may think you're fine, it's still important that you get checked out by the paramedics or a doctor as soon as possible. Get documentation of any injuries associated with the crash and keep track of money that you pay for treatment. Avoiding medical care can be detrimental not just on your health, but also on any legal claims you must file later.
Forgetting to Document
Using your cell phone camera is a quick and easy way to document your accident. You can snap shots of the vehicles' positions, damage, skid marks, roadway damage (guardrails and signs, etc.), as well as injuries to passengers and drivers. It's also important to write down the names and contact information of everyone involved and any witnesses.
Accepting a Quick Settlement
The goal of most insurance adjusters is to settle a case as fast as possible and protect the company's interests. First offers of settlement are often too low and should never be accepted without consulting the experienced Winter Haven accident attorneys.
Having the right legal advice will help you avoid signing away your right to fair and reasonable compensation for your accident. In fact, you should discuss your claim with a lawyer before ever speaking to the other driver's insurance company. However, it's also important to note that the accident should be reported to your own insurance company right away, even if your deductible will not be exceeded by the damages to your car.
Refusing Legal Advice
The worst mistake, and the easiest one to avoid, is not getting help from an attorney. Consultations are free, and an accident attorney can review your case, advise you about your legal rights, and help plot a course of action to achieve the best outcome possible for you.
Getting Angry
Of course being upset after a traumatic event is a natural reaction, but it's best to remain as calm as possible. Treat other drivers and passengers involved politely, and avoid confrontation and blaming. Questions by police officers should be answers with basic statements of fact, not opinions. Winter Haven accident attorneys strongly recommend that you not make apologies or admit fault in any way.
Refusing Treatment
Not all injuries are evident immediately after a car crash. While you may think you're fine, it's still important that you get checked out by the paramedics or a doctor as soon as possible. Get documentation of any injuries associated with the crash and keep track of money that you pay for treatment. Avoiding medical care can be detrimental not just on your health, but also on any legal claims you must file later.
Forgetting to Document
Using your cell phone camera is a quick and easy way to document your accident. You can snap shots of the vehicles' positions, damage, skid marks, roadway damage (guardrails and signs, etc.), as well as injuries to passengers and drivers. It's also important to write down the names and contact information of everyone involved and any witnesses.
Accepting a Quick Settlement
The goal of most insurance adjusters is to settle a case as fast as possible and protect the company's interests. First offers of settlement are often too low and should never be accepted without consulting the experienced Winter Haven accident attorneys.
Having the right legal advice will help you avoid signing away your right to fair and reasonable compensation for your accident. In fact, you should discuss your claim with a lawyer before ever speaking to the other driver's insurance company. However, it's also important to note that the accident should be reported to your own insurance company right away, even if your deductible will not be exceeded by the damages to your car.
Refusing Legal Advice
The worst mistake, and the easiest one to avoid, is not getting help from an attorney. Consultations are free, and an accident attorney can review your case, advise you about your legal rights, and help plot a course of action to achieve the best outcome possible for you.
About the Author:
The Winter Haven accident attorneys are standing by to assist those who have been in an accident and require legal advice. Contact Rivas Law Group today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney in Winter Haven.
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