Being in a car accident is as terrible as it sounds. The victims are shaken to the core, and they have no idea what to do next; and this is where they make things worse for themselves later. Despite being injured, you need to stay vigilant after a car accident and avoid common mistakes that can cost you your car accident claim or recovery from the insurer.
Making unnecessary mistakes can result in you not getting the no compensation that you rightfully deserve. But it’s not your fault either. People are unaware of the dos and don’ts after a car accident that can affect their legal rights. This article will discuss the mistakes to avoid when dealing with insurers after a Florida car accident.
10 Mistakes to Avoid After a Florida Car Accident
1. Not Calling The Police
After a car accident, it is always smart to call the police, even for a minor accident. It might not seem necessary, but a third party’s view of the accident and their objective opinion can stop help both the drivers from making false claims and help you recover what you rightfully deserve if the car accident wasn’t your fault. The police can help gather important information, which will be useful when filing your claim.
2. Waiting Too Long To File A Case
If you are aware that the accident occurred as a result of to the other driver’s negligence, then don’t wait too long to file a case. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to gather evidence and help you recover your losses. Each state has different laws when it comes to the period within which you can file a case. Thus, it’s best to hire a personal injury or auto accident lawyer to ensure that know all the legal requirements are covered.
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3. Admitting Fault
Emotions run high after a car accident. You are injured, hurt, and probably don’t know what’s happening around you. At these times, it’s important to remember to avoid certain phrases when talking to other victims or the police. These statements could be from “I am sorry,” to “I am okay and not injured in any way.” Such statements downplay the severity of the accident at best and criminalize you at worst.
Also, avoid making statements that you are not sure of. Providing false information can also cost you your car accident claim. Stick to the facts and don’t provide any additional unnecessary information.
4. Not Gathering Information
You need to stay vigilant after a car accident, which involves gathering contact information from the other drivers and victims. For example, exchange names and insurance information and note the license plate number, vehicle’s make and model, and more. Such information will be vital when filing an insurance claim.
5. Accepting An Unfair Settlement
If you are in a car accident and are not liable, you need to file a claim and get the compensation you deserve. It is also important not to accept the first settlement offer you get. Hire a personal injury lawyer, gather all the evidence, build a strong case, and get the best offer possible. Because once you accept, you can’t file the claim again.
6. Not Getting Medical Attention
No matter how minor your injuries are, you need to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Medications and appointments are not only necessary for your health but also to strengthen your case. You can use these documents as proof when you include the doctor’s findings in your insurance claim.
Many victims over time become complacent with their appointments; don’t do that. The insurers can use this complacency against you.
7. Not Gathering Evidence
We all know how crucial evidence is when you have to file a case or a personal injury lawsuit. Evidence can be gone quickly within a few hours of a car accident; thus, make sure you take pictures of everything, from the damaged cars and injured victims, to skidmarks, the position of the cars, the surrounding area, license plates, and more. Anything can help support your claim.
8. Trusting Your Insurance Company
You might think your insurance company is there to help you that is not entirely the case. The insurer works for the company and not for you. And they will always look for a way to give you less than what you deserve. Thus, when dealing with insurers after a Florida car accident, avoid phrases like, “the accident was my fault,” “I am okay,” or any official statement that can impact your claim. Don’t trust your insurance company blindly, and hire a lawyer before making any claims.
9. Lying In Your Claim Application
If you decide to file a claim, please do not include any information that you are unsure of or any that is an outright lie. This is illegal, and if you’re caught, it can affect your claim and recovery cost you might not even receive any money. The defendant’s insurer can use the false information to disregard your claim and hold you accountable for the accident.
10. Not Hiring An Attorney
Lastly, the biggest mistake you can make after a car accident in Florida is not hiring an attorney. Many people believe that their insurance company is enough to handle all the legal documents and safeguard their rights, but sadly, that’s not the case. And since most of us are not well-versed in the law, we accept any settlement, even if we know its way less than we deserve. Thus, it’s recommended to hire a personal injury lawyer or car accident lawyer before filing any claims or making any statements. A lawyer can provide a third-person perspective and help in gathering all evidence and information to get you the best settlement possible.
Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyers are well-versed with Florida laws and help deal with motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, etc. They ensure that all necessary evidence, such as public records, videos, pictures, witness statements, etc., are available to help you file a strong case and get compensated. Contact them today at (561) 800-8000 to book a free case review with one of their attorneys.