What started as a standard commute can quickly go south when someone rear-ends you. Not only can this cause additional stress, injuries, and financial hardship, but filing a claim can be confusing and complex if you don’t know where to start. Similarly, there are many errors you can make that can hurt the chances of recovering damages. When you need to file a car accident claim, avoiding the most common mistakes can help ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries. Keep reading to learn more and discover how Monmouth County car accident attorneys can help you during this confusing process.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes When Filing a Car Accident Claim?
One of the most common mistakes many make is leaving the accident too quickly. Though you may be in a hurry, simply exchanging insurance information isn’t enough to help when you want to file a claim. It’s essential to contact law enforcement to file a report with an officer when involved in a collision. This report contains vital information about the accident, helping to prove liability in a legal battle. You should also remain at the scene long enough to take photos and videos of the damage to your vehicle and gather the names and contact information of witnesses.
Another mistake people make when it comes to filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is not going to the doctor. While you may not require immediate medical attention following the accident, it’s essential to go to your regular healthcare provider afterward. Without a medical record of injuries and treatment following the accident, it can be nearly impossible to receive compensation for injuries sustained.
While social media is a great way to stay connected with your loved ones from a distance, spending too much time scrolling can hurt your case. Unfortunately, everything you post online can be used against you during a legal battle. This means if you’re suing for the injuries you sustained but post a photo of yourself at a rock concert, the negligent party’s insurance or legal representation may be able to deny your claims, as your injuries are not prohibiting you from enjoying your regular life. Similarly, talking about the claim can have serious ramifications on the viability of the case, as a discrepancy between a minor detail you told police and what you posted online can derail your entire claim.
Can an Attorney Help Me When Filing a Claim?
When involved in a car accident, ensuring you reach out to a competent attorney is crucial to receiving the compensation you are entitled to. While it is possible to file a claim without an attorney, the odds of winning are extremely low. This is because attorneys have the experience necessary to fight against insurance adjusters and other attorneys to help clients.
If you’re in need of an attorney, the Wilton Law Firm can help. Contact us today to connect with one of our seasoned lawyers to learn how we can guide you through this process.
