Principal Attorney
Being in a car accident is stressful, and it’s easy to make mistakes in the heat of the moment. However, some of these mistakes can seriously impact your ability to recover damages. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
Not Calling the Police
After a car accident, it’s crucial to call the police, even if the collision seems minor. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which is invaluable when filing an insurance claim. This document outlines key details like the accident’s location, time, and circumstances, helping to establish the facts.
Without a police report, you may face challenges proving what happened, especially if the other party disputes your account. This can lead to delays or even denials of your insurance claim, making it harder to recover the compensation you deserve.
Admitting Fault at the Scene
Admitting fault at the scene of an accident can seriously impact your ability to claim damages later on. For example, if you apologize and say, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you,” it could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Even if you’re just trying to be polite, these words can be used against you by insurance companies or in court.
It’s essential to avoid making any statements about who’s to blame. Instead, stick to the facts and let the police and investigators determine fault. This way, you don’t unintentionally weaken your case.
Failing to Gather Evidence
Failing to gather evidence after a car accident can make it challenging to prove your case later. It’s important to take photos of the scene, including:
- Damage to vehicles: Capture your car and the other vehicle from multiple angles.
- Injuries: Document any visible injuries you or others may have.
- Road conditions: Show any contributing factors like skid marks or debris.
Also, witness statements and contact information should be collected if possible. This evidence can be crucial when dealing with insurance companies or if your case goes to court. Without it, your ability to claim damages may be weakened.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
Skipping medical attention after a car accident is a mistake, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, might not show symptoms immediately but can be serious. By seeing a doctor right away, you protect your health and create a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
This documentation is crucial if you need to file a claim later, as it provides evidence that your injuries resulted from the accident, not a pre-existing condition. Don’t delay; getting checked out is key to protecting your rights.
Not Contacting an Attorney
Delaying contact with an attorney after a car accident can put your claim at risk. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather crucial evidence, and you might miss important deadlines for filing a claim. An attorney can guide by:
- Evaluating the strength of your claim and potential compensation.
- Collecting and preserving critical evidence, including witness statements and accident reports.
- Negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit, If necessary.
Getting legal advice early on can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident in Nassau County
Avoiding these common mistakes after a car accident can significantly affect your ability to recover damages. If you’ve been in an accident, contact Civardi & Obiol for a free consultation. We’re here to help you protect your rights and get the compensation you need.