5 Way You Reduce Your Chance of Winning a Car Accident Claim

Posted in Car Accidents on May 25, 2018.

A car accident can be costly, and your best chances of recovering compensation for your losses is by filing a car accident claim against the insurance of the driver who caused your crash. Victims in an accident can do things to better their chances of receiving fair compensation – and they can do things to reduce those chances. Talk with an attorney to know what to do to protect your chances of winning a claim, and consider these best practices while your case is underway. The following are some of the ways you could inadvertently hurt your car accident claim.

Failing to Take Action at the Scene of the Crash

Most of the crucial evidence victims need to prove another driver negligently caused your car accident will be present at the crash scene, but not for long. Once the police arrive to cordon off the area and question those involved, they will quickly clear the area and clean away debris for traffic to pass. After contacting the police but before they arrive, be sure to take photos of the accident site, the damage to your vehicle, the resting positions of the vehicles involved, any skid marks on the road, and anything else that will help a jury form an accurate picture of what transpired.

Admitting Fault

Choose your words carefully when you speak with the police and insurance adjusters. If you use words like “I’m sorry,” or “I couldn’t see them,” the police or an adjuster could construe these phrases as admissions of fault, and your statements could come back to hurt you later. Whenever you speak with the police or an insurance agent, do not admit fault. Answer their questions honestly and concisely, and don’t offer more information than necessary.

Delaying Medical Care

A car accident may leave you feeling rattled, even if feel unhurt, immediately after it occurs, but then you may be unable to get out of bed the next day. Adrenaline can dull pain sensations, and some injuries will not be painful until hours or days after you sustain them. After the police clear you to leave the scene of an accident, seek medical treatment immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. If you delay, you not only put your health at risk, but the delay will cast doubt on the truthfulness of your claim if it includes severe injuries. An insurance adjuster or jury may assume your injuries were not that bad if you didn’t feel the need to seek immediate treatment.

Losing Crucial Documentation

It’s imperative to keep records of all receipts, invoices, bills, and correspondence related to your accident. You will also need to carefully track all of your expenses relating to your case on a daily basis so you can submit an accurate claim. You should also keep records of all interactions with insurance agents. If possible, have your attorney handle communications with the insurance company.

Talking to Insurance Companies Before Hiring a Lawyer

This could be a major mistake on your part. Remember, insurance companies are not your friends. They are in business to make money, and paying out on claims loses money. They will look for any reasons they can find to reduce your settlement or deny your claim. Always hire a lawyer before speaking with any insurance company, even your own. A reliable attorney can help prevent you from settling for less than you can legally claim.

Throughout your car accident case, it’s wise to avoid social media and pay close attention to your lawyer’s advice. If you post information relevant to your case publicly, it could negatively influence your case. If you have questions about your car accident claim, your personal injury attorney should be your first resource.