Even a minor car accident can result in injuries with lasting effects that are felt long after the actual crash or collision. Your injuries may require ongoing medical treatments, leaving you with a pile of medical bills, while preventing you from working or engaging in the activities you previously enjoyed.
While you may be entitled to pursue a car accident claim or lawsuit, it is important to realize that a mistake on your part could result in a lower amount of compensation or totally compromise your case.
Important Rules to Live By
The majority of accidents occur as a result of driver errors, such as speeding, distracted driving, driving too fast for conditions and driving under the influence.
If you have suffered injuries as the result of another driver’s negligence, then you may have a right to be compensated for your losses. It is important to seek guidance from a lawyer who has experience handling car accident case and avoid the following missteps that can undermine your case.
Failing to Document Your Injuries
Seek medical attention after an accident, even if you think the injuries you suffered are minor. Injuries are not always immediately apparent. Oftentimes, it can take days or weeks to realize the full impact of your injuries. You should make a point to see a doctor and inform the doctor that you have been in an accident. A doctor’s report provides documentation of your injuries caused in an accident. Failing to have a doctor’s evaluation of your injuries can result in your claim being denied. Take pictures of any bruises, cuts, or other injuries you have and follow all recommended treatments. Also take photos of damage to your vehicle. Documenting your injuries and losses is important to support a claim for compensation.
Discussing Accident Details on Social Media
Use caution when posting anything about your accident, your injuries, or your recovery on social media. According to a 2015 Huffington Post report on the legal impact of sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, insurance companies do not hesitate to check social media when investigating your claim. Comments made about your behavior before, during, or after an accident can be used against you to dispute the severity and impact of your injuries.
Making Comments About Your Injuries to Other Driver
When giving a statement to the police or to an insurance claims adjuster, be careful to avoid implicating yourself or downplaying the injuries you have suffered. While it may be your natural inclination to think of potential ways you might have avoided an accident, it’s best keep these thoughts to yourself. Do not attempt to comfort the other driver at the scene or try to reassure the other driver by diminishing the severity of your injuries. Doing so could jeopardize your case and leave you struggling to pay medical bills related to an accident that you did not cause.
Failing to Consult an Experienced Attorney
Contacting a Rhode Island car accident lawyer personal soon after a serious accident allows the attorney to move quickly to find witnesses and preserve evidence before it is lost. Failing to act quickly can mean your injury claim is more difficult to prove. An attorney can prevent you from being taken advantage of by an insurance company that is hoping you will accept a low ball offer.
Seek Trusted Legal Guidance
At Marasco & Nesselbush, LLP, our Rhode Island car accident lawyers understand the serious damages that can result from car accidents. Our attorneys can help to protect your rights to compensation after an accident and seek the full compensation you need. Before speaking with an insurance company or accepting a settlement offer, contact us for a free consultation. We serve the Providence, Cranston, Warwick, Woonsocket, and Wakefield areas, and we fight to ensure car accident victims get the compensation they deserve.
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