If you’re injured in an auto accident, how you respond in the immediate aftermath can significantly affect whether you can recover the full and fair compensation that you may be entitled to for your damages. Without realizing it, victims make mistakes that prevent them from collecting the compensation they deserve. While you may already be familiar with the steps you should take after an accident, it is equally important to understand what not to do to safeguard your legal rights. If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact our skilled Middlesex County Auto Accident Attorneys, who can help you fight to obtain the rightful compensation you deserve.
What are the most common mistakes victims make after an auto accident in New Jersey?
Following a car accident, taking specific steps to protect your legal rights and maximize your chances of receiving the maximum compensation you may be entitled to for the damages you’ve incurred is vital. If you make certain mistakes, it could jeopardize the future of your case.
One of the biggest mistakes victims make after an auto accident is not notifying the police. If any parties involved in the accident are injured, or there is substantial property damage, you must call the police. If you fail to do so, you could face significant consequences. Nonetheless, when the police arrive at the accident scene, they collect valuable evidence that can help you corroborate your claim later on. Filing a police report is imperative as it can provide critical information about the accident that can help establish fault. For example, if the other driver broke the law, they may be issued a traffic ticket, which could help you prove their negligence caused the collision.
Furthermore, another common mistake victims make is refusing or delaying medical attention at the accident scene. Regardless of whether you think you did not get hurt or that your injuries are minor, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. While you have the right to refuse medical care, it can hurt your claim. Certain accident-related injuries may not be evident right away. However, medical professionals will be able to identify potential problems before they become symptomatic and provide the proper treatment for a speedy recovery.
If you refuse or delay medical care, the insurance company may deny your claim as they can argue that you are not injured since you did not require medical attention, your injuries are not as severe as you claim them to be, or that you contributed to the severity of your injuries by failing to mitigate future damage by seeking medical attention.
Should I consult an attorney?
Nevertheless, the most significant mistake victims make is not retaining the legal services of an experienced attorney. An attorney can guide you through every step of the complex claims process. They can investigate the circumstances of the collision and assist in collecting pertinent evidence that can help prove your claim. In many instances, the other party’s insurance company may offer a lowball settlement. Many victims will accept the settlement provided because they don’t know it is far less than they need to get back on their feet. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Contact the qualified Middlesex County auto accident attorney at Stathis & Leonardis today to discuss your case. Our firm is prepared to represent your interests today.
