Even a minor auto accident can cause life-changing injuries. Victims seldom think about hiring a personal injury lawyer in Fair Oaks, CA until the chaos has passed and, in many cases, they make oversights that may affect their ability to file a claim. Below are several mistakes for victims to avoid after an auto accident.
Not Notifying Police
Once injuries have been assessed, it’s important to call the police right away. By notifying the authorities, a formal investigation will be initiated and a police report will be made. The information in the report can help a victim document another driver’s fault in a personal injury case, and it can be difficult to prove a claim without proof from the police.
Not Getting Witnesses’ Information
Most auto accidents are seen by one or multiple witnesses, and it’s important to gather contact information in order to corroborate a claim. Witness testimony can help prove another driver’s liability or support a plaintiff’s innocence. Ask witnesses for their names and contact information to avoid the insurance company’s refusal of compensation or a claim denial.
Giving a Statement Without Speaking to an Attorney
If a victim gives a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster without speaking to Lawyers Sevey Donahue and Talcott, it can have serious negative effects on a claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to undermine a case’s value by asking leading questions. It’s possible that, without a lawyer’s help, one can inadvertently admit fault or understate their injuries, which can be very costly in terms of final compensation.
Forgetting About Property Damage
If the insurer pays for vehicle repairs, they should be handled right away. Those who spend the insurance money on other things, such as medical bills, are likely to find that an adjuster will argue that the property damage isn’t serious enough to justify compensation. Moreover, if the victim takes the car to a repair shop, the technician can provide a list of damage to corroborate the claim.
Signing a General Waiver
Many victims start out making errors by signing releases. In most cases, people believe they’re signing a waiver for property damage. However, most of these are general releases that prevent the subsequent filing of a lawsuit. Clients should consult a personal injury lawyer in Fair Oaks, CA before signing any documents from the other driver’s insurance company.
