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6 mistakes to avoid if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident

On Behalf of | Jun 6, 2016 | Car Accidents

When a person gets into a car accident, there is the potential for serious injury. If you have been injured in a car accident or trucking accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Make sure that you avoid the following six mistakes after a car or trucking accident:

1.) Not seeking medical treatment immediately: 

Seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident is both important to your health and to receiving compensation for your injuries. A doctor can diagnose injuries and can attest to the fact that they were caused by the accident. If you do not seek medical attention or delay it, the insurance company can claim that your injuries were not serious enough and that you are not entitled to full compensation. 

2.) Not filing a police report:

Filing a police report after a car accident, particularly if you suffer an injury, is critical. The police report can provide an objective account of what happened and can be used during settlement negotiations or a lawsuit.

3.) Thinking you do not need a lawyer:

Contacting a lawyer soon after a car accident is absolutely crucial. The insurance company will often try to avoid paying fair compensation. An attorney can ensure that your right to adequate compensation is protected.

4.) Not collecting evidence at the accident scene:

Collecting evidence at the accident scene-including the names and contact information of witnesses, the personal, vehicle, and insurance information of the other driver, and pictures and physical evidence of the accident-will be vital if you sue the other driver for your injuries.

5.) Providing statements to your insurance company before consulting your lawyer:

Do not make the mistake of giving statements to your insurance company before consulting your lawyer. After an accident, insurance companies will try to get statements from you and obtain authorizations for your medical and other records, which they will use to try to limit the compensation they will pay. Always speak to your lawyer first.

6.) Thinking your insurance company will act on your behalf:

Often the insurance company does not have the same interests as you. You should not assume that they will always act on your behalf. Do not be pressured into accepting a fast settlement and getting less than fair compensation.

If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident or a trucking accident, it is important that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help secure your legal rights, avoid these costly mistakes, and preserve your right to maximum compensation.