After a motor vehicle accident, there are crucial actions you should take to protect your health and ensure you receive full compensation. These include seeking medical attention, contacting the authorities, documenting the scene and collecting witness statements.
It is equally important that you avoid common mistakes that could prevent you from recouping your medical costs and lost wages. Here are three things you should not do following a car accident.
Ignore your doctor’s advice
You should make sure to follow any advice that a medical professional gives you. Not doing so could result in greater injuries. Additionally, the insurance company or legal counsel for the other driver may try to use this as evidence that you are not as hurt as you claim.
Admit fault
There is often significant confusion in the aftermath of a vehicle collision, and you may find yourself apologizing to the other driver to help calm the situation. Even when you are unsure of your level of blame, you should never admit fault or apologize. These statements could impact whether you receive reimbursement for your injuries.
Talk to the other driver’s insurance company
Insurers are experts at using your own words against you. Because of this, you should avoid speaking with a representative for any other person involved in the accident.
The insurance company may also try to convince you to settle for less than you should receive. A legal representative can help you handle the settlement process so that you receive the compensation you deserve.
