Imagine you have just been in an accident. Do you know what the first steps to take are? Most people know to exchange information and to take pictures. However, the bigger problem lies in what you should not do following a wreck. Everything you do in the first few minutes can affect how much you receive in a settlement to recover. Therefore, it is important to discuss common mistakes people make following an accident.
Underestimate Injuries
It is common to underestimate how severe your injuries are because you only have minor stiffness. However, sore or stiff joints could be hidden sprains or breaks. Feeling disoriented, achy, or stiff after a wreck is common, but it does not mean that you do not have injuries. You may write off brain injuries or breaks until they are aggravated. While you may “feel” okay, never say that you are until you have been thoroughly checked out by a medical professional. Keep a journal following the accident and track how you are feeling for a few weeks, just to see if anything presents itself later. Finally, if you do not want to pay for a ride to the hospital, let first responders know you have your own transportation.
Give Too Much Information
Another common mistake is believing your insurance agent has your best interest in mind and give them too much information. Their job is to save their boss money, not be your friend. They want to gain your trust so they can obtain information that would limit how much they pay you. You will need to give some data to them, but keep it basic and refer them to your lawyer for any further information they require. You have no obligation to talk to the agent of the other driver’s insurance company.
Always Involve the Police
People think that if it does not involve life-threatening injuries, the police do not need to be involved. It is required to file a report with law officers, regardless of how minor the incident was. If you are in a heavily trafficked area, it is best to make the phone call, take as many pictures or videos if safe to do so, and then move your vehicle to a safer location. If you do not feel safe talking to the other driver, call first responders and then remain in your car until they arrive. Your lawyer can communicate with law enforcement to retrieve the reports and information you may not have access to when they are fighting your case.
Following an accident, the most important thing is making sure you limit how much you talk, file a claim with an insurance agent, have a police report taken, and be checked out by medical professionals. All of these will assist you, and your lawyer receives a settlement that will help you on the road to recovery. When in doubt, contact the Greensboro car crash lawyers for advice on what steps to take.
They also take care to provide the proper documentation of injuries, detailed narratives, and daily reports the insurance companies and attorneys need for the proper resolution of your injury claim.
Take care of yourself by making the best choices for your claim. Avoid these mistakes and put your claim in the hands of experienced car accident lawyers.
