After a car accident in Pennsylvania, understanding what not to do can make a significant difference. If you’ve made any of the mistakes we list below, don’t worry, because Wilk Law Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers provides dedicated legal support to individuals seeking justice and compensation after serious injuries or motor vehicle accidents.
Car accidents can be overwhelming, and they’re unfortunately common in Pennsylvania. According to PennDOT, there were over 115,000 reported crashes in the state in 2023.
In the stressful moments following a collision, it’s easy to make decisions that might hurt your case or delay compensation. These errors can have lasting consequences, from failing to seek medical care to skipping documentation or speaking too freely with insurers.
Below, we outline nine common mistakes people make after a car accident and how to avoid them to protect your health, rights, and potential claim.
Failing to Call Authorities
Some people may be a little lax about calling the police following an accident, especially when they think the damage is minimal. But an official report is essential. The record is an unbiased account of what transpired, which can be helpful for insurance claims and legal issues. Emphasis on calling authorities, no matter how minor the injury may be.
Neglecting Medical Attention
Even if there is no visible injury, a doctor should evaluate you. Others, like whiplash or internal damage, might take time to present themselves. Even if both of you feel fine, a medical checkup can help reveal hidden injuries and offer documentation for insurance and other legalities.
Admitting Fault at the Scene
Some might instinctively apologize or admit fault in the confusion following an accident. However, doing so can complicate insurance claims. It’s best to avoid discussing responsibility. Focus on exchanging information and wait for the authorities to assess the situation.
Failing to Document the Scene
Gathering information from the scene of the accident is crucial. Take photos of the vehicles, document any visible injuries, and note the road conditions. This data helps validate your version of events and can be essential when it comes time for insurance claims. Be sure to collect contact information for any witnesses; their statements can prove helpful.
Late Notification to Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as you can. Accidents are complicated, and delays in processing can complicate claims. The faster and more accurate the data, the smoother the claim process is. When giving an account to your insurer, honesty is the best policy; the more details you provide, the better.
Overlooking Legal Advice
Many people misuse legal advice, remembering it only when the law is relevant to a specific incident, especially during court proceedings. If a car collides with the side of a man’s property or system, the legal system may be able to help with personal injuries. A legal expert can help you understand your rights and obligations and navigate media coverage. Expert-guided, case-specific recommendations to ensure you make the right decision.
Minimizing Future Impact
Others might become engrossed in current affairs and overlook the potential long-term consequences. Injuries may take a long time to treat and can disrupt work and life. If insurance or legal issues arise, be sure to keep these things in mind. A holistic view of the landscape ensures that employees are compensated not just now, but also in the future.
Taking up the early settlement Offer
Insurance companies might offer quick settlements to close a case swiftly. While tempting, these offers may not cover all expenses, particularly if injuries worsen or unexpected costs arise. Evaluate settlement offers carefully, considering both immediate and potential future expenses. Consulting a legal expert can provide further insight.
Not Fixing the Car Correctly
After an accident, people tend to use the cheapest repair methods to save money. But bad repairs could create further safety concerns down the road. This approach guarantees that all repairs adhere to industry standards and other trustworthy resources and services. Repairs that are appropriately done keep the car safe and functional.
Conclusion
Steering clear of a few of these typical mistakes can make a big difference after an automobile accident. As long as the proper steps are taken, you can be assured that your rights and interests are protected, the recovery goes smoothly, and the dispute will be resolved satisfactorily. Knowing what to expect and what to do will help you avoid stress and problems that most people encounter, enabling you to face the situation with confidence.
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Company Name: Wilk Law Firm
Contact Person: Tyler
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Address:1650 Market Street Suite 3600
City: Philadelphia
State: PA 19103
Country: United States
Website: https://wilklawfirm.com