4 Mistakes to Avoid in a Car Accident Claim

According to the National Safety Council, the United States records over 2.35 million passenger car accidents each year. And while many of these are minor fender benders, a significant number result in serious injuries or even death.

One thing all these accidents have in common is the potential to result in an insurance claim. And while insurance companies are required by law to provide coverage for accidents, they're in businesses with a bottom line to protect. This means they're often looking for ways to minimize the amount of money they have to pay out on claims.

This can be frustrating and even overwhelming for those who have been involved in an accident and are simply trying to get their lives back to normal. But there are some things you can do to help make sure you're not taken advantage of and that you receive the full amount of compensation you're entitled to.

Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when filing a car accident claim.

1. Not Calling the Police

For many people, the first instinct after a minor car accident is to exchange insurance information with the other driver and be on their way. But this is a mistake. According to http://bbjlawyers.com/, even if the damage appears to be minor, it's always best to err on the side of caution and call the police.

The police will create an official report of the accident. This can be important later if there are any disputes about what happened or who is at fault. It can also help to corroborate your account of events if you need to file a personal injury claim.

2. Not Seeking Medical Attention

Another mistake people often make is assuming that because they don't feel injured, they must not be. But it's important to understand that many injuries, such as whiplash, may not present themselves until hours or even days after the accident occurred.

This is why it's always best to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Not only will this ensure that you get prompt treatment for any injuries, but it will also create a record of your injuries that can be used later to support your claim.

3. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

When you're dealing with an insurance company, it's important to remember that they're not your friend. Their goal is to minimize the amount of money they have to pay out on claims. And one way they do this is by offering a low initial settlement offer.

This may be tempting, especially if you're eager to put the accident behind you. But it's important to understand that the first offer is almost always well below what you're actually entitled to.

Before accepting any settlement offer, be sure to consult with an experienced car accident attorney. They can help you determine what your claim is actually worth and negotiate with the insurance company to get you the full amount you deserve.

4. Not Hiring an Attorney

You may be wondering, “What does a car accident attorney do?” Many people believe that they can handle their own car accident claim without the help of an attorney. But this is often a mistake. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers who are experienced in handling these claims and minimizing the amount of money they have to pay out.

An experienced car accident attorney level the playing field. They can help you gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and even take your case to court if necessary.

Don't make the mistake of trying to handle your car accident claim on your own. Hire an experienced attorney who can help you get the full amount of compensation you deserve.