If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to handle the situation carefully. Whether it’s dealing with injuries, insurance claims, or a personal injury lawsuit, the steps you take right after an accident can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Our Springfield, IL car accident lawyer recommends avoiding these six mistakes so you can protect your rights and strengthen your case.
1. Failing to Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. Delaying medical care could not only make your injuries worse but also weaken your claim for compensation later. Always prioritize your health and make sure there’s a record of your injuries from a professional.
2. Admitting Fault at the Scene
It’s easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment and apologize or take responsibility for the accident, especially if you think you were partly to blame. However, admitting fault at the scene can severely hurt your case. The facts surrounding an accident may be unclear right away, and admitting fault could complicate your ability to recover damages. Leave the determination of liability to the authorities and our lawyer.
3. Not Collecting Enough Evidence
The evidence you gather immediately after an accident can play a key role in your case. Failing to collect important information, such as photos of the scene, contact details of witnesses, or insurance information from the other driver, can make it difficult to build a strong claim. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, write down everything you remember as soon as you can.
4. Settling Too Quickly
Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement after an accident, but it’s rarely in your best interest to accept without consulting our Springfield car accident lawyer. These initial offers are often lower than what you could receive after proper negotiations. Before agreeing to any settlement, speak with our attorney, with decades of experience in personal injury law, who can assess your injuries and potential long-term costs, such as medical bills and lost wages.
5. Giving Recorded Statements Without Legal Advice
Insurance adjusters might ask for a recorded statement about the accident, but it’s best to speak to our lawyer before agreeing to this. Your words can be twisted, and anything you say could be used against you later. Our attorney can help facilitate these conversations and make sure you don’t say anything that could undermine your claim. Always consult our lawyer before giving a statement.
6. Failing to Keep Track of Medical Treatment and Expenses
After an accident, keeping track of your medical treatment and related expenses is essential for building your case. Failing to document your visits, bills, prescriptions, or treatments can make it harder to prove the extent of your injuries and the financial burden caused by the accident. Save all receipts, medical records, and correspondence with your healthcare providers. These records are critical for getting the compensation you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights After An Accident
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful experience, but the way you handle the aftermath can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover damages. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can better protect your health, your rights, and your ability to receive the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure about what to do next, schedule a free consultation with our Springfield car accident lawyer at Pioletti, Pioletti, & Nichols. We are available by phone or email 24/7. Lean on a firm who is committed to fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. Get in touch today to learn about your options for pursuing legal action after a car crash.