If you get into a car accident, you should avoid making mistakes such as admitting fault, delaying medical treatment, not informing your insurance provider, and failing to exchange information with the other driver. Making these mistakes can impact your claim for compensation.
A Boca Raton car accident lawyer can help you avoid these common mistakes so you can recover the financial compensation you deserve. For more information or to discuss your case during a free consultation, please call our law firm today.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
Yes, there are many mistakes you should avoid after a car accident, including:
- Admitting fault: You should never admit fault for an accident. An admission of fault, such as apologizing to the other driver, can inadvertently provide them with grounds to file a lawsuit against you for damages. It is always best to consult with a lawyer before making statements.
- Failing to seek medical treatment: Even if you believe you are uninjured, it is strongly advised to seek immediate medical care after a motor vehicle accident. You could have a severe injury and not know it because some symptoms do not present immediately. A doctor can document your injuries and the treatments you receive, which can support your claim.
- Not calling the police: Police will write up an official report of the accident, which you can use as evidence in your insurance claim or lawsuit. The police can also call in other emergency responders to the scene, and document any apparent negligence such as intoxication.
- Leaving the scene: Do not leave the scene of an auto accident. You could face hit-and-run charges and other legal consequences, especially if the other driver suffers bodily injuries. You also rob yourself of the opportunity to tell your side of the accident to the police and document the accident.
- Not exchanging contact information: Exchanging information with the other driver is crucial. You should get their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, plate number, and insurance details. This will make filing a claim less difficult.
- Failing to inform your insurer: Even if you do not have damages to claim, the other driver might attempt to file a claim against you. Informing your insurance provider is a basic step to take after an automobile accident. Your insurer can be a valuable ally, especially if you are not the negligent party.
- Neglecting to document the accident: You have the opportunity to collect crucial evidence at the accident scene while it is fresh. You can take photographs of the accident with your phone and gather contact information from witnesses, both of which you can use as evidence in a personal injury case.
- Posting on social media: We urge you to avoid posting about the accident on social media. Even the simplest post can be used against you to deny your claim. It is tempting, but you do not want to give the other driver and their insurer an excuse that could prevent you from recovering the fair compensation you deserve.
- Accepting an initial settlement offer: The other driver’s insurer may make a quick settlement offer to make your claim go away. This may sound fair, but insurance companies generally want to pay out as little as possible. You should evaluate any settlement offer with your attorney, who can advise you if it is a fair amount of compensation or not.
- Talking to the other driver’s insurer: Just like you should avoid admitting fault or making statements, you should not talk to the other driver’s insurer. They may try to trick you into admitting fault or saying something else that hurts your claim. Let your attorney handle communication with the insurer on your behalf.
- Delaying legal consultation: Whether you are the negligent party or not, we recommend consulting with a lawyer after an auto accident. A Boca Raton personal injury lawyer can provide you with legal options and protect your rights.
The Impact of Mistakes on Your Car Accident Claim
Certain mistakes can have significant consequences for accident victims, potentially jeopardizing your personal injury claim. You may not be able to collect as much compensation or none at all, preventing you from recovering the costs of medical bills or any loss of income.
These financial damages can be devastating and threaten your future. The American Bankruptcy Institute reports that medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States.
A mistake, particularly admitting fault, can increase your insurance premiums. Any mistake you make could also be used against you in court to convince a jury to produce an undesirable verdict.
Understanding the Deadline for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
Taking prompt action is crucial if you intend to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation after a car accident in Florida. The deadline to file a civil action is generally two years from the date of the accident, according to Florida Statutes § 95.11.
If you fail to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires, you may forfeit your right to pursue the at-fault driver and their insurer in court for compensation. A lawyer from our firm will ensure you meet the deadline for your case.
Learn How GED Lawyers Can Help You Avoid Costly Car Accident Mistakes
Mistakes happen, but learning what mistakes to avoid after a car accident can benefit your claim and strengthen your personal injury case. A Boca Raton car accident lawyer from GED Lawyers can provide you with advice and be your advocate if you or someone you love were hurt in a car accident.
We strive to serve our client’s needs and our case results demonstrate our dedication to fighting for them, recovering more than $26 million in settlements and verdicts since 1995. We can guide you through the legal process so you can avoid making a common mistake that could negatively impact your claim.
To learn more about what mistakes to avoid after a car accident, or to get a free consultation, please contact us today.
