Auto accidents are never an easy experience. From property damage and personal injury to the numerous headaches that can come from having to deal with insurance companies or the legal system, car accidents can create a tremendous amount of frustration for those involved. By preparing yourself for how to react in the event you are involved in an accident, however, you can better ensure that your legal rights will be protected.
At Cannon & Dunphy S.C., we have worked with many car accident victims and have seen how certain mistakes people make after a crash can threaten their right to financial compensation. Below are 5 common mistakes to avoid after you’ve been involved in a traffic collision.
If you’re able to do so, calling the police can be a wise decision. Aside from handling any emergency or criminal issues at the scene of an accident, law enforcement officers can also take notes about the incident and record statements. Their notes could become useful should you choose to file an injury claim.
After any traffic accident, you should always exchange information with any other motorists who were involved. Without this type of information, you will have a difficult time making a case. Make sure to record a driver’s license plate number, insurance information, and contact information. If witnesses are present, you can take down their information as well.
Too many people involved in traffic accidents feel as though they don’t need medical attention, either because they don’t feel pain right away or because they think the pain will go away. When you don’t seek prompt medical attention, you not only put yourself in danger but your future potential injury claim as well. Waiting on or forgoing medical attention is a common, but serious, mistake.
The insurance company is in business to protect their bottom line. Don’t believe that an insurance company will fairly compensate you for your damages and never accept an offer without first consulting an attorney. This mistake could cost you significantly.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make after an accident is not consulting a lawyer. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you fully understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim. Personal injury lawyers specialize in this type of work, and can help you deal with the insurance company and how to best recover the compensation you deserve.
By remembering these common mistakes and how to avoid them, you can better protect your rights after an auto accident. If you have questions about your case and how our car accident attorneys can help you, contact Cannon & Dunphy S.C. today for a free case evaluation.
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