Being involved in a car crash caused by someone else’s negligence can be a jarring and confusing experience for accident victims who’ve suffered serious injuries, significant property damage, and other losses as a result.
Unfortunately, for many accident victims, seeking compensation for crash-related damages via an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit is no less daunting.
Not only is the process often lengthy and complex, but it’s far too easy for victims to make an error that can have a long-lasting, negative impact on their case.
Fortunately, a knowledgeable and experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney can help car accident clients avoid common pitfalls. Our firm recommends that car crash victims watch out for these potentially case-damaging mistakes:
- Apologizing or accepting fault. Sometimes saying “I’m sorry” is an automatic response, but apologizing or accepting fault for an accident can have serious legal consequences.
- Not reporting the accident to authorities or the insurance company. Reporting a crash to the police ensures the incident is on record, and results in the creation of an official accident report, which can provide a victim’s attorney valuable information. Failing to report the accident to the insurance company may result in a denied claim.
- Failing to seek timely medical care. Waiting too long to seek medical attention may allow the insurance company or at-fault party’s defense attorney to claim the injuries sustained in the accident weren’t serious, or were unrelated to the crash.
- Refusing to follow the doctor’s advice or attend follow-up visits. As important as seeking medical attention is following the doctor’s treatment plan to the letter. Otherwise the insurance company or defense attorney may claim that the victim is hindering their own recovery.
- Posting about the accident on social media. Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys frequently scrutinize an accident victim’s social media posts, looking for evidence that the victim isn’t as injured as claimed. Even things posted innocently can be misconstrued and used against someone.
- Providing a recorded statement to an insurance company without first consulting an attorney.Insurance adjusters often ask accident victims to provide a recorded statement. However, what people tell an adjuster can be used against them by the insurance company.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
If you were injured in a car accident caused by another person or entity’s negligence, it’s important to understand your rights and options. Contact the Accident and Injury Law Group today to schedule an appointment for a free initial review of your case.