How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Filing a Car Accident Claim in Effingham County
If you have never had to file a personal injury claim after being involved in a car accident, the process can be overwhelming. Even the slightest oversight or mistake can impact the outcome of your claim and the damages that you are able to recover. Too often, car accident victims fail to take the necessary steps in the moments immediately following the accident, which can limit the financial compensation they are entitled to, or even result in the insurance company denying the claim. Having a general understanding of some of the common mistakes people make after a car accident can ensure that the claims process goes smoothly and that you recover the maximum financial compensation you deserve. An experienced car accident lawyer will assist you with every step of the claims process, ensure that you avoid common pitfalls, and negotiate the best possible settlement outcome.
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid After a Car Accident?
The moments following a car accident can be extremely stressful and chaotic, particularly if there are serious injuries involved. When emotions are running high, it can be easy to say the wrong thing or make a seemingly minor oversight that could have a significant impact on the outcome of your claim. The following are examples of common mistakes people make when filing a personal injury claim after a car accident:
- Failing to call the police after the accident: Even if the accident caused minimal property damage and minor injuries, it is highly advisable that you call 911 and report the accident. The responding police officer will interview the motorists involved in the accident, determine who is responsible for causing the accident, and write a police report. This can be an extremely valuable piece of evidence, particularly if the police report clearly states that the other driver caused the accident. You can request a copy of the police report as soon as it is available.
- Failing to seek immediate medical attention: Even if you only suffered minor injuries, it is important that you are examined by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away, or adrenaline can mask pain and other symptoms. Avoiding or delaying treatment can allow an injury to become more serious and difficult to treat. This can also have a negative impact on your personal injury claim. The insurance company may argue that your injuries must not be very serious if you did not find it necessary to get medical treatment.
- Failure to gather evidence from the accident scene: If you are able to safely move around, it is crucial that you collect as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the position of the vehicles involved, your injuries, skid marks on the road, traffic signs, and the weather conditions at the time of the accident. In addition, if there were witnesses who saw the accident happen, ask if they would be willing to provide a statement and ask for their contact information.
- Admitting fault: Be careful about what you say after the accident. If you say anything that could be considered an apology, the insurance company may interpret that as an admission of fault and try to deny your claim. Limit your conversation with the other driver to the facts about the accident. Cooperate with the police officer and keep your answers concise.
- Waiting too long to file a claim: In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. If your claim is filed after the deadline, your claim will likely be denied, and you will be unable to recover any damages. Keep in mind that insurance companies often require you to report the accident within 24 to 72 hours, so make sure that you file your claim as soon as possible.
- Failing to document your losses: In addition to covering the expenses associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle, car accident claims cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Make sure that you keep a detailed record of all accident-related expenses, including medical records, pay stubs, a letter from your employer, prescription medications, and transportation costs.
- Communicating directly with the other party’s insurance adjuster: Oftentimes, the other driver’s insurance adjuster will try to contact you directly and ask questions about the accident or your injuries. They are trained to twist your words and use your own statement against you, resulting in a much smaller payout than you deserve.
- Accepting an initial settlement offer: Insurance companies will often make an initial settlement offer that may seem like a large sum of money. However, these offers rarely cover the total damages, particularly if you have not yet fully recovered from your injuries. For example, if you accept an initial offer and you need additional surgeries or treatment after you have received the settlement, it is unlikely that you will be able to pursue additional compensation.
- Failing to hire an experienced car accident lawyer: A dedicated car accident lawyer will evaluate the full scope of your losses, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and pursue the financial compensation you deserve. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, your car accident lawyer will help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
Effingham County Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Assist Clients With Every Step of the Claims Process
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact the Effingham County car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. Our highly skilled legal team will review the details of the accident, determine who is responsible for causing the accident, and help you navigate the claims process. We will ensure that your legal rights are protected and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule an initial consultation, call today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we gladly serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.