No matter how cautiously you drive, mishaps can happen anytime and even the most seasoned drivers can make mistakes after an accident. Understanding why/what these mistakes can cost will help you avoid them. It is important to take care of yourself and make sure you are doing the best that you can to resolve the situation mentally, physically, and financially.
Here are the top ten mistakes you should avoid after a car accident.
- Not calling the police. It is very important to call the police. Police can
- Make record of the accident.
- Obtain information about the other driver.
- Take witness statements, measurements, photos of the damage and determine if someone needs medical attention.
- Not getting information of the other party involved. If you had an accident it is important to get the name, address and telephone numbers of the other party involved in the accident. Make sure the information they provide are up to date and accurate.
- Not getting the information of the witnesses at the accident scene. The police officer can get telephone numbers of the witnesses. If there is no police officer at the scene approach the witnesses yourself and ask for the names, addresses and contact numbers. If your case is a contested one (both sides say they are not at fault) witness statements can be helpful in determining who is at fault.
- Not taking pictures at the accident scene. If possible, take pictures of the damaged cars involved in the accident, other damages and distinct landmarks. Pictures taken immediately will be helpful to document your claim.
- Not calling the insurance company to report the accident. It is important to call your insurance company as well as the other driver’s insurance company to report the accident. Failing to do so could lead to a denial of benefits to you or additional hassles when sorting out your claim.
- Not seeking medical treatment. You may not feel the need of medical help right after the accident but seeking evaluation by qualified medical professionals is important because pain may show up later. If you didn’t get medical attention shortly after the accident, your claim may not be given full and proper consideration.
- Not having your car damaged evaluated by a professional. A professional mechanic will be able to properly document the damaged done to your car as a result of the collision. Get a written estimate.
- Get a rental car if necessary. This is very often part of your insurance coverage.
- Do not make statements to the at fault driver’s insurance company. Contact an attorney who is experienced before speaking to the other insurance company.
- Not giving a recorded statement. After the accident, you may be contacted by an insurance company representative. They will inquire about the accident, the damages to the vehicle and the status of your injuries. Be sure that your statement is recorded by the claim representative. Keep a copy of the recorded statement.
Were You Seriously Injured in A Car Accident? Call the Reinken Law Firm in Stamford, Connecticut for Experienced Injury Lawyers who will fight for you!
If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, it is very important to take prompt action. Speak to our Stamford car accident lawyers at The Reinken Law Firm to discuss your case. Call us today at (203) 541-0090.