If you’re involved in a car accident, there’s a good chance that some kind of insurance claim will follow. Whether you’re hit by another vehicle or you end up hitting one it pays to know the basics and how to get the best settlement.
Yet, even if you know the basics of car accident claim preparation many people make mistakes in the process. Below, we’ll look at eight common car accident claim mistakes, so you can avoid them.
That way, you can get the settlement you deserve. Let’s take a look.
1. Failing to Call the Police: Most Common Car Accident Claim Mistakes
Calling the police is one of the most important things you can do after a car accident. Many people make the mistake of assuming that the police will not be needed. Because the damage is not severe.
But, the police can document the accident and collect information. That will be crucial to the claim-filing process. Without a police report, it will be more difficult to prove that the other driver was at fault.
In some states, you may even be required to file a police report to file a claim. If you are, you should call the police, err on the side of caution and make the call.
2. Not Collecting Important Evidence
Be sure to get all this evidence before leaving the accident scene. Photos of the accident scene, police reports, and witness statements are important evidence.
If you don’t collect this evidence, it will be very difficult to build a strong car accident claim. The insurance company will likely try to find ways to deny or cut your claim. Without evidence, it will be very difficult to prove the other driver was at fault.
3. Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Accepting the first settlement offer from the insurance company is another common mistake. Oftentimes, these initial offers are much lower than what the victim is actually entitled to. For this reason, it’s important to seek out legal help before accepting any offer. A qualified lawyer will be able to help you negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
4. Not Hiring an Attorney
Many people think they can handle their own claims and save some money in the process. This is a huge mistake. The insurance companies are not on your side. They will do everything they can to cut the amount they have to pay you.
A car accident attorney will know how to deal with the insurance companies. They will get you the most compensation you deserve. They can level the playing field and ensure that you get the full compensation you deserve. Read more here to know how a car accident lawyer can assist.
5. Not Speaking to Witnesses
After a car accident, it is important to speak with any witnesses who may have seen what happened. This will help to ensure that your account of the accident is accurate and complete. But, there are some common mistakes that people make when speaking with witnesses.
First, they may fail to get the witness’s contact information. Second, they may forget to ask the witness what he or they saw. Third, they may not follow up with the witness to thank him or her for speaking with them. By avoiding these mistakes, you can help to ensure that your car accident claim is successful.
6. Not Seeking Medical Attention
Many people believe that since they do not feel any pain, they do not need to see a doctor. Injuries from car accidents can take days or even weeks to develop. Seek medical attention immediately after an accident. You could be jeopardizing your health and your car accident claim.
Delays in seeking medical attention can result in more serious injuries. It may take a longer recovery time. If you are involved in a car accident, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.
7. Not Documenting All of Your Injuries and Expenses
Make sure to keep a record of everything. From doctor’s appointments and medical bills to car repairs and tow truck fees. These car accident claim documents will help ensure that you are compensated for all your losses.
Not documenting all your injuries and expenses related to a car accident case can be a costly mistake. Your car accident claim may be undervalued or even denied. If you don’t have a record of all the financial costs associated with the accident.
If you’re unable to work because of your injuries, be sure to keep documentation of lost wages.
8. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Many people think they can call their insurance company and give them a few days to sort everything out. But, insurance companies often have a strict claim filing deadline for filing claims. If you miss it, you could be denied coverage. In some cases, you may even be required to pay for the repairs yourself.
Get the Claim You Deserve
Although nobody plans on being in a car accident, they do happen. When they do, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure you are not taken advantage of and that you receive the most amount of compensation you are entitled to.
By being aware of the car accident claim mistakes people make following a car accident and taking steps to avoid them, you can put yourself in the best possible position for a successful outcome in your case.
Check out our other articles to learn more about how you can mitigate potential losses and protect yourself.
