Be Assertive and Avoid These Post-Accident Blunders

Posted on: 9 July 2021

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After an accident, it's easy to make a few mistakes when trying to recover. Take a look at the below common missteps some accident victims make so that you can avoid doing the same thing when it happens to you.

Feeling Sorry is Okay 

It's natural to experience sympathy for the other driver. They or their passengers could have suffered injuries just like you did. Be careful, though, that you don't accidentally admit to causing the accident. Even saying that you are sorry for their injuries could be misconstrued as taking the responsibility for the accident. Try to avoid babbling at the accident scene so you can keep blunders to a minimum. Shared-fault situations are to be avoided at all costs.

Forgoing Medical Attention? Just Say No 

After a vehicle accident, you might be inclined to look yourself over and just head home. Unfortunately, some injuries are hard to notice and some may even show up several days later. Seeking immediate medical care is important, but don't hesitate to go to the doctor later if something worrying pops up. Medical care is not an option if you want to be fully compensated for your injuries.

Keep Things to Yourself 

You might have to crush those instincts for sharing on social media after an accident. You don't want to accidentally ruin your case by haphazardly writing a post that construes misinformation. Avoid speaking to anyone about the accident except close friends and family in person.

Never Speak to the Other Side 

The accident adjuster for the other driver will call you and ask you to participate in a recorded call about the wreck. No matter what they tell you, it's well worth your time to not do it. It's just too easy to get trapped into saying something damaging to your case. You are not required to speak to them, so let your personal injury lawyer handle all communications on the other side of the case.

Don't Blunder Into a Settlement 

Settlements are good things, but they need to be adequate and fair. Most victims vastly underestimate the amount of compensation they deserve and end up agreeing to a settlement that far below what they need. Let your lawyer approve any settlements or accident-release paperwork before you sign them.

Don't Assume You Can Go It Alone 

You may be reluctant to speak to a lawyer thinking, perhaps, that you can do it all yourself. Of all the DIY projects you might be capable of, representing yourself in an automobile accident case is not one of them. Lawyers will understand how much you should be paid so that you are not regretting your decisions later when you need more money to cope with your losses.

Don't try to take this burden on yourself. Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your case right away.