Did you know that almost 1.25 million people die in road crashes every year? That’s 3,287 deaths each day on average. On top of this, another 20-50 million people are injured or disabled.
If you are planning to file a car accident lawsuit, read on. Here are 8 simple mistakes that could blow your case. Be aware and learn what to do for a car accident lawsuit.
1. Not Reporting to the Police
One of the biggest mistakes people make after a car accident is failing to report the collision to the police.
No, you don’t have to be the person who blocks two lanes of the road for an hour while you wait for the police to arrive.
Most states allow you to report the event in person at your local police station. You don’t have to stay on the scene of the accident in most places.
In some places, you have up to 10 days to report it. Check your local accident reporting requirements in your state to be sure.
Make sure you describe your accident with as much detail as you can when reporting the incident.
2. Getting Witness Contact Info
Most people know that after a car crash you need to exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved.
But many don’t realize that you should also exchange information with any witnesses who saw the collision.
This could make a big difference in your car accident lawsuit. When your case goes to court, your attorney will use witness testimonies to prove your case.
Always get the contact information of all witnesses at the scene of a car crash.
3. Not Getting Medical Treatment
Yes, medical treatment can be expensive. Especially for the millions of Americans living without insurance.
Yet, it’s vital to your case that you seek medical treatment after your injury. Otherwise, the defending attorney will use this fact to convince the judge that your injuries weren’t serious.
Also, some injuries aren’t so obvious such as brain injuries after a car crash.
You limit your potential settlement by avoiding medical treatment. Remember, your attorney will use your medical record as evidence in your car crash case.
4. Posting on Social Media Activity After The Accident
We are used to sharing every big or small update on social media. But insurance adjusters and lawyers will look at your social media activity on the date of your car accident.
Even if you post things so that only your friends or followers can see, there are ways around that. Adjusters will be closely monitoring your social media presence.
Anything you post on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter can be used to disprove the severity of your injuries. Posting online is a critical mistake. Many car crash lawsuits have been ruined by social media posts.
The insurance company will look for any way to pay you less. This doesn’t mean you should delete your accounts. But don’t post anything new after your accident that may give the impression that you are totally healthy and well.
5. Not Taking Pictures
Nowadays, we never leave home without a camera (on our smartphones that is). That means there’s no reason why you would be unable to take pictures of the accident scene.
You know the saying, a picture is worth a thousand words. Take pictures from every angle to document your accident.
Take photos of your car’s damage inside and out. Take photos of your injuries at the time of the accident.
You should also take pictures of yourself days and weeks after your accident. Bruises and swelling don’t appear instantly following a car crash.
Make sure to document any changes to your body after your crash. Also, take photos to document your progress during rehab.
The more unrefutable proof you have, the better the odds for your car crash lawsuit.
6. Talking To People About Your Injuries or the Lawsuit
This is one of the most common mistakes that can ruin your car accident lawsuit. Yet, it’s one of the easiest to avoid!
Though your accident and injuries are a big deal, resist the urge to talk about it with anyone besides your lawyer and your doctors.
You can expect to get calls from insurance lawyers, insurance adjusters, and even third-party case managers. No matter how nice and “on your side” these people seem, don’t say anything.
Don’t speak to members of the press either. Direct all questions and calls to your attorney.
Anything you say to anyone could potentially be twisted to be used against you. So keep your lips sealed for a better end result.
7. Lying
The consequences of lying about your car accident can be severe. Don’t try to embellish or stretch the truth in order to get a better settlement.
Lying is sure to backfire. Providing false information can void your lawsuit. Then, you wouldn’t be entitled to any compensation for your injuries.
No matter what, do not lie. Not to your doctor, the police, or your lawyer.
8. Not Hiring an Experienced Injury Lawyer
The final mistake that can ruin your car accident lawsuit is failing to hire an experienced injury lawyer.
Evidence is not enough to win your case. You need a skilled and experienced lawyer on your side. You need someone who can advise you in a wide variety of matters that are relevant to your case.
An experienced injury lawyer will make all the difference between winning and losing your case.
Your attorney will help you file your lawsuit and make a plan to get the best outcome.
Bottom Line on Car Accident Lawsuit
There you have it. 8 mistakes that can destroy your car accident lawsuit. If you follow the advice in this article, you’ll have the best possible chance of getting the compensation you deserve due to a car collision.
Next, check out these 6 tips for hiring a car accident attorney.