10 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident – Guest Post

Car accidents can be overwhelming, confusing, and it’s challenging to know what to do if you have been involved in one. The post-accident aftermath can be as stressful when it comes to filing insurance claims, figuring out your medical bills, and getting a lawyer. But what you do right after the crash can be crucial when it comes to your case, especially if people are hurt.

However, there are some common errors that people make, which can undermine their chances of receiving a fair settlement or even compromise their legal standing. The more you know about what not to do and the best way to approach a situation, the more you can help protect your rights. Whether you’ve been in an accident in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach, being informed can make a real difference in helping you recover from your injuries (physical, emotional, and financial). In this article, you will learn about the 10 things you should not do after a car wreck so that you are better prepared for what lies ahead.

1. Failing to Call the Authorities

A critical mistake motorists often make after an accident is not reporting the accident to the police. No matter how small the collision may appear, you need to call the authorities to report the accident. Such a report will be helpful later, when it’s time to negotiate with insurance or during the legal process. Without it, you may not have much to rely on to validate your side of the story, which will then hinder your ability to get adequately compensated. In Fort Lauderda, for example, you will typically require the police report for insurance purposes and to handle the litigation process.

Reporting incidents to the police also documents any harm, regardless of whether the injuries are immediately apparent. Some injuries — for instance, whiplash — may not immediately exhibit symptoms, and a police report will be critical evidence if symptoms develop later.

2. Admitting Fault at the Scene

In the immediate aftermath of a crash, emotions can run high, and in the heat of the moment, it’s tempting to say something you’ll wish you hadn’t later. Admitting fault at the time of the accident is one of the worst things you can do. Even if you believe you were at fault, it’s a good idea to refrain from making any statements that might be construed as an admission of guilt. And the first at-the-scene assessment of fault can sometimes be murky, and police and insurance adjuster investigations can provide added information.

You may be forfeiting your right to sue and recover compensation even if the other party is at least, if not more,  equally responsible. Instead, keep to the facts, exchange insurance information and allow the authorities to determine fault.

3. Failing to Document the Scene

Failing to take adequate notes or photographs at the scene is another fundamental error to avoid. This is something that is often overlooked in the heat of the moment; however, taking photos of the scene can be invaluable in the future. Take a few images that show any damage to the vehicles and the nearby scene. Take photographs of any skid marks, road signs, or traffic signals that may have played a role in the accident.

Finally, make a note of where and when the accident occurred, the location, the weather, and any other circumstances that may have contributed to the accident. This written record will be vital for both your insurance claim and any lawsuit that may be brought later. Please obtain the names and contact information for witnesses, who may also be helpful as you seek justice.

4. Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately

Never mind feeling fine after an accident; it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. Many injuries, such as internal injuries or soft-tissue injuries, may not appear for hours or days. By delaying the visit, not only are you risking exacerbating your injuries, but you may be putting your potential claim for personal injury compensation in jeopardy as well.

Also, insurance companies generally seek a gap between the accident and medical treatment for proof that the accident wasn’t severe enough to make a claim. And, for the most part, the quicker you get medical treatment, the better your “case,” and particularly if you are hoping to receive some form of compensation for pain and suffering.

5. Discussing the Accident on Social Media

We live in a digital age, and it can be tempting to share your accident and accident details on social media. But posting about your accident online can be a colossal error. Insurance companies and attorneys regularly look at social media profiles to find evidence against those who have been injured in accidents. Even candid posts could have been used to cast doubt on the severity of your injuries or imply that you were at fault.

It is best not to post anything about your accident until your case is over. This applies to both photos and written comments or anything that may be misinterpreted. Your social media pages should be locked down, and you should be dubious of posting anything about the incident.

6. Settling Too Quickly

Insurance companies often rush to settle after a car accident, especially if they think the other driver is at fault. But it is usually fatal to take the first offer. Insurance companies may attempt to settle cases quickly, so they have to pay you as little as possible, but these proposals generally do not reflect what an insurance company owes an auto accident victim.

Question any offer before accepting any agreement with a skilled professional, like a West Palm Beach attorney focusing on car collisions. They are there to make sure you are fully compensated for any damage you suffered and get all of your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other costs paid.

7. Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Another error to avoid is failing to report the accident to your insurance carrier. Some people mistakenly believe that they are only required to report accidents with significant damage or injuries, but this is not the case. Even when an accident is relatively tiny, inform your insurer, because it’s possible your claim could be denied if you don’t.

Besides, reporting the crash also makes you follow the rules stipulated in your insurance policy, where you are supposed to inform them within a specific period. After a collision, always alert your insurer as soon as you can — even if you’re not sure you will file a claim.

8. Ignoring the Need for Legal Representation

Settling a car accident claim on your own is intimidating, especially when handling an injury or a more complex situation. Not hiring an attorney is the biggest mistake you can make. Insurance carriers have armies of adjusters and attorneys whose job it is to minimize your recovery, and without an experienced attorney of your own, those difficulties can become nearly insurmountable.

A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Legal representation can be significant if there are disputes over fault, injuries, or if the accident resulted in substantial damages.

9. Underestimating the Costs of Medical Treatment

Car wrecks can lead to medical bills that can quickly accumulate. Even if you have health insurance, you still might have out-of-pocket costs like deductibles or co-pays. One common mistake is not factoring in the long-term costs of medical care, especially if injuries will necessitate ongoing care or therapy.

Both immediate and future medical costs should be considered when valuing your total case value. If you have been harmed, make sure to speak with your doctor and your attorney before taking a settlement to make sure you are taking into consideration all of your potential medical costs, including rehab, prescriptions, surgery, etc.

10. Failing to Follow Up on Your Claim

Filing a Car Accident Claim: The car accident claim process doesn’t stop when you have filed the required forms with your insurance company or lawyer. Your failure to pursue your claim and ensure that it is being followed up could lead to delays and possibly result in your application not being approved. It’s just as important to be proactive yourself, regularly following up with your insurance company or attorney to see that your claim is proceeding.

Don’t be shy about taking action if you think that your claim is delayed or mishandled. By consulting a lawyer, you are in a better position to know the state of your case and how to proceed. 

Conclusion

Auto accidents are never fun…they can be confusing and overwhelming, but what you do after can make a significant difference. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can help protect your rights, receive fair compensation, and recover fully. A Seasoned Attorney’s Help is Invaluable. Whether you are looking for help filing an insurance claim, getting medical care, or just taking a look at the process, a skilled attorney can help guide you each step of the way.