5 Claim-Killing Mistakes You Must Avoid After a Car Accident

The aftermath of a serious collision is rife with confusion and dismay. It can seem impossible to think clearly, but one minor oversight or misguided statement could be all it takes for the insurance company to undervalue or deny your claim.

You may already know that insurance providers have financial incentive to pay claimants as little as possible. It is crucial, then, that you avoid doing anything that would give the insurance company an excuse to dispute your claim.

Sometimes all it takes is a single Facebook post or a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster to destroy a claim. This is why it is so important to enlist the help of an attorney who understands the tactics that insurance companies use to deny and undervalue claims.

Let’s examine five mistakes you should avoid after a car accident and during the claims process:

1. Not Calling the Police

It is a good idea to contact the police after any collision, but it is especially important to do so if anyone was injured or if there was significant property damage. An officer will compile an accident report that contains details about the time, date, and cause of your accident, and whether there were injuries or property damage. You will need this report to file your claim.

2. Not Speaking with Eyewitnesses

If the at-fault driver or insurance company disputes liability, your attorney may rely on eyewitness testimonies to support your claim.

3. Not Taking Photos of the Crash Scene

Photos can help your injury attorney prove negligence and liability and connect your damages to the accident. Remember to take pictures of any injuries, property damage, traffic signs, skid marks, and the positions of vehicles.

4. Not Visiting Your Doctor

If emergency medical responders did not attend the scene of your accident, it is imperative that you visit your doctor as soon as possible for a medical evaluation. If you put off your medical exam, the at-fault driver or insurance company might contend that your own negligence contributed to the severity of your injuries or that they were caused by something else.

5. Not Consulting a Car Accident Lawyer

An experienced personal injury attorney can handle the legalities of your case while you focus on recovering from your injuries. Your lawyer can help you avoid crucial mistakes such as accepting a settlement too early, overlooking future damages, or making a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster. Also, insurance companies tend to take claims that are filed by attorneys more seriously than those filed by accident victims.

Our Client Bill of Rights offers a 30-day unconditional satisfaction guarantee —no costs and no fees. We serve our Greenville clients in all areas of personal injury, including auto and motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and boating accidents.

To get started with our Greenville personal injury law firm, please simply contact us online or call (864) 326-3333(864) 326-3333 for a free consultation.