Mistakes to Avoid Making After a Car Accident D.C. Auto Accident Lawyer
The immediate minutes and hours following a car accident can be extremely stressful. You might be in pain, anxious about the cost of the accident, worried about the rest of your day and your loved ones, and more. In times like these, it is important to try to take a step back, assess the situation, and not act emotionally and impulsively.
There are several mistakes that you should avoid to ensure the opportunity to receive maximum compensation from the accident.
The first mistake is to not call the police. The police play a vital role in a case. They create a crash report, and gather evidence, like the names and contact information of witnesses, the other driver’s insurance and contact information, and photographs. They also note the at-fault party. Be sure to get a copy of the accident report and, if possible, the badge number of the officer who created the report.
Next, under no circumstances should you admit guilt, whether it be to a friend, family member, or the officer. Your insurance company, and the insurance company of the other party, will do everything it can to settle for as little money as possible. Admitting guilt, even if you were not guilty, lessens the chances of recovering.
The third mistake people make is skipping the doctor. You should not underestimate your injuries by making it seem like you’re not really hurt. If you avoid going to the doctor, your insurance company and other parties may doubt your claims. It is a giant red flag. If you were injured on a Monday, but don’t go to the doctor until Thursday, the other party may try to prove that the injuries you sustained occurred on Tuesday or Wednesday, and that they shouldn’t have to pay. You should start an injury journal, noting your pain levels, physical effects, and activities you can no longer participate in.
The fourth mistake involves trusting the insurance company and settling too quickly. Though they say the opposite, insurance companies do not have your best interest at heart. They want to spend as little as possible and settle as quickly as possible. The sooner you settle, the sooner they can close your file. By waiting to settle, you can get a better understanding of your injuries and the treatment needed – physical therapy, doctor’s visits, and more. Then, the settlement offer will include monetary compensation that covers medical bills.
Navigating a car accident case can be complex, and it may be in your best interest to hire an attorney. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the experienced attorneys at Cohen & Cohen can help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (202) 955-4529 for a free case evaluation.
