Suffering a severe injury in a car accident is a difficult thing to deal with. Talking with doctors, police, and insurance agents can leave a victim exhausted and confused. Making a mistake during this time can jeopardize the best possible outcome for a victim, so they need to be sure every action that may support their best interests.
The average cost of a car accident settlement is over $20,000. If a victim does or says the wrong thing, they can receive far less than they need to cover their injury. These are some of the most common mistakes victims can make:
Admitting guilt
Even if you know that you were not responsible for your accident, you may admit guilt without even knowing it. Apologizing is a common reflex that many people experience after just being bumped into on the street. Unfortunately, an apology can be used against you after an accident to make you liable for a portion of the damages.
Avoiding the doctor
Many people who can walk away from an accident think they do not need to see a doctor. A doctor knows how to look for things you may not be able to recognize, like traumatic brain injuries or nerve damage. A doctor also knows how to confirm your condition after an accident. Their report establishes your health following the crash and prevents anyone from claiming you sustained your injuries from something unrelated.
Not calling the police
A police report is an unbiased document that verifies the details of an accident. Your word can only go so far in establishing what happened at the accident. Let the police verify your statements with their report. Police also collect witness testimony and other evidence at the scene that can help bolster your claim.
Not getting an attorney
It can be hard to know what a fair settlement is for your injuries, or how to negotiate for one. Attorneys know what it takes to get the best possible outcome in your case and help you get it. You can rely on their experience to fight for you so you can focus on recovering.
Doctors, police officers, and lawyers have the power to help your personal injury claim, and so do you. Make sure you are protecting yourself by relying on the experience of these professionals.