6 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Car Accident Claim

As a car accident victim, how you deal with the aftermath influences your case’s outcome. Following the necessary procedures increases your chances of getting fair compensation from your claim. With one wrong move, you could lose the chance to get compensated for your losses. Therefore, it is necessary that you know what to avoid while filing a car accident claim. Keep reading to learn about the six major mistakes that can ruin your accident claims. 

Not Visiting a Hospital Immediately

Not every accident victim sustains visible physical injuries. Some damages are internal and may not manifest immediately. As such, it’s important to see a medical health professional immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine.

The health care provider will run tests to check for signs of injuries with delayed symptoms. Skipping this step gives the other driver’s insurance company and lawyers leverage. They can argue the intensity of your injuries or claim that post-accident ailments were a result of an unrelated event.

Apologizing to the Other Party

It’s important to collect personal details from the other party, but you must limit your interaction. Despite being overwhelmed, avoid saying sorry or admitting fault. Defense attorneys can use a statement like “I didn’t see your vehicle” to argue that you’re also at fault for the collision. In a state like North Carolina that follows the contributory negligence rule, such claims prevent you from receiving compensation. To avoid ruining your claims, watch your words and stick to facts when speaking. 

Failing to Collect Evidence From the Accident Scene

Collecting evidence is necessary for backup. You can’t build a strong case without evidence from the accident scene. Capture road signage, vehicle damage, bodily injuries, and witness statements. You can also get surveillance footage from nearby dash cams. Don’t forget to collect the official police report. Without all these, it’ll be difficult to prove your case in court.

Being Active on Social Media

In a bid to lessen their expenses, insurance companies may monitor your social media accounts. They’ll look for posts after the date of the accident that show you in a happy state. They can contort harmless images to push a narrative that your injuries aren’t severe. 

For example, a picture of you in gym wear suggests that you’re physically fit. Considering this, it’s best to stay off social media for the settlement and trial period. Alternatively, switch to a private profile to prevent strangers from accessing your shared content. 

Not Hiring a Good Lawyer

Without a trained lawyer, you’ll encounter several bottlenecks in your case. For example, you may accept an undervalued settlement offer or unknowingly provide evidence that the counterparty may use against you. 

It’s best to hire a Charlotte car accident lawyer or a specialized attorney if you live in the city. Lawyers in your location may also be more familiar with state laws and local insurance companies. Hence, they can protect your rights, provide proper defense,  and ensure you get fair compensation for all claimable damages.

Communicating Directly With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

The other driver’s insurance company is not on your side. Their interest lies in maximizing their gains by minimizing your payout. As such, they will request recorded statements, looking for errors with which to contest the compensation amount.

When you communicate with insurance companies, they’ll offer poor settlements. Most victims don’t realize it as they haven’t taken the time to study the true value of their claims. To prevent this situation, don’t speak to insurance companies without a good lawyer. Also, prepare for a lawsuit within the statute of limitations period if their settlement offer is poor.

Endnote

Your actions after a car accident can make you lose your compensation. To protect your claim, avoid delaying medical checkups, admitting fault, and social media activity. Don’t forget to collect evidence and hire a specialized lawyer. Refrain from speaking to insurance companies without consulting your lawyer.