Sustaining an injury in a car accident can be a traumatic experience. That said, if you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation, but there are several mistakes you should avoid to maximize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. Read on and reach out to a Jacksonville car accident lawyer from Ansbacher Law to learn more about the most common mistakes to avoid after a car accident.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
Just some of the most common mistakes we see people make after car accidents are as follows:
- Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention: Failing to see a healthcare professional after an accident can lead to undetected injuries. Prompt medical attention not only ensures your well-being but also establishes a crucial record of injuries.
- Admitting Fault at the Scene: Avoid discussing fault or apologizing at the accident scene. Such statements can be misconstrued and potentially used against you in legal proceedings.
- Neglecting to Call the Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement, even for minor collisions. A police report can serve as valuable evidence later on.
- Failing to Document the Scene: Take pictures and gather information about the accident scene, including vehicle positions, license plate numbers, and contact details of involved parties and witnesses. This documentation can be vital for your case.
- Not Exchanging Information: Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s) involved. This information is essential when filing a claim with insurers or pursuing legal action.
- Delaying Contact with Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company promptly about the accident, even if you believe the other party is at fault. Delays can complicate your claim.
- Neglecting to Consult an Attorney: Engage a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.
- Posting On Social Media: You can bet that once you file your personal injury claim, insurance companies will be monitoring your social media accounts to see if you post anything that even remotely contradicts your claim. For example, if you post a picture of you playing football but you claim to have significantly injured your leg, they may use this against you, even if they have to take it out of context.
- Missing Filing Deadlines: The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Florida is, typically, two years. If you wait longer than two years from the date of your accident to sue, you will most likely permanently lose your right to do so.
If you have any further questions about what to do, and what not to do, after a car accident, or you believe you may have a valid car accident claim, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Ansbacher Law today. We are a steadfast legal advocate for the wrongfully injured in Florida, and we’re prepared to fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.
