4 Major Mistakes To Avoid After Being Involved In A Car Accident
While car accidents are unfortunately very common, most people are not involved in car accidents on a regular basis. Thus, when you do get into a car accident that you were not at fault for, it is natural to not know what to do or what to expect in the aftermath. Since most people don't have experience in dealing with the details after a car accident that they did not cause, a lot of people make mistakes, and these mistakes can be costly. If you are in a car accident and the other driver is found to be at fault, avoid making these mistakes.
1. Giving a Statement to the Insurance Company
One of the most important things to know when you're in a car accident is the other driver's insurance company is not on your side. The claims adjuster that tries to get in touch with you will likely be professional and friendly, but his or her job is to find a way to pay out as little as possible. While the other driver's insurance company will try to get in contact with you, never provide a written or verbal statement about your account of the accident.
2. Hastily Accepting a Settlement
Very few people have a true understanding of what their claim is worth after a car accident. Insurance companies use this fact to their advantage by offering people settlements that are far less than what they deserve. It is normal to want to get things settled as quickly as possible after a car accident, but you should never accept the initial settlement offered to you by the other driver's insurance company.
3. Failing to Seek Medical Care
Car accidents can involve a lot of force and a big impact, and injuries are not uncommon. Even if you don't notice injuries immediately following a car accident, there is a good chance that they will become noticeable after a couple of days. Any time you are in a car accident, make an appointment to see your doctor. Doing so will ensure that you get proper medical care, and there will also be records of what types of injuries that you sustained in the crash.
4. Not Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
The biggest mistake that you can make after a car accident is not hiring a lawyer to represent you. Car accident lawyers typically do not charge by the hour or require a retainer -- they receive a portion of your settlement, so you don't have to pay a cent out of your own pocket. Good car accident lawyers will protect your best interests, help ensure that you don't get taken advantage of, and fight to get you the settlement that you deserve.