In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, you’re likely to experience a rollercoaster of feelings and emotions. You may be disoriented, confused, angry, and frustrated. Making matters worse is the fact that you may be in pain. But regardless of how you feel in the moments after being involved in a car accident, you have to be careful of what you say and do so that you don’t jeopardize any potential personal injury claim that you may have.
What you should avoid doing after a car accident
It’s important to remember that anything you say and do will probably be used in court to try to deflect any allegations of wrongdoing, which very well may negatively impact your ability to recover the compensation that you need and deserve. Therefore, in the aftermath of your accident, you should avoid doing each of the following:
- Making statements indicative of fault: A lot of people start apologizing when they’re involved in an accident or they make a statement about something that they shouldn’t have done something leading up to the wreck, inferring that they are to blame for the accident. Don’t do that. Those statements will most certainly be used against you by an insurance company that’s looking to deny your claim to avoid paying you. Those kinds of statements will probably be used to defend against a personal injury claim, too.
- Neglecting to assess and document the accident scene: The scene of the accident can tell a compelling story. That’s why it may be best for you to take pictures of the vehicles’ resting positions, any posted traffic signs, nearby traffic signals, lane markings, and road and weather conditions. This evidence can help support your position as you pursue your legal claim. If you’re unable to gather this information, then you may need to ask a family member or friend to assist you.
- Posting on social media: Until your personal injury lawsuit is resolved in some fashion, the accident and your claimed injuries are going to be placed under the microscope. So, be careful about what you post on social media. Even seemingly innocent photographs or statements can be used to try to minimize your injuries or even place blame on you for the accident. That’s why it’s oftentimes best to just avoid taking to social media until after your claim is resolved.
- Seeking proper treatment: Again, part of your personal injury case is going to be focused on proving your damages. If you don’t seek immediate medical treatment and follow your doctor’s recommendations, then it’s going to be hard for you to argue that you should be compensated for your injuries.
- Failing to complete appropriate forms: In the aftermath of your wreck, you’re bound to be sent numerous forms from the insurance companies that are involved. As annoying as these documents may be, they’re critically important, and many of them have deadlines associated with them. Therefore, if you fail to thoroughly read and complete these forms, then any subsequent claims that you file with the insurance company may be denied.
Don’t overlook the importance of having a legal ally on your side
Even though there’s a lot that you need to do on your own shortly after an accident, you don’t have to face the entire process on your own. An attorney who has a proven track record of success handling these types of cases can give you the guidance and advocacy that you need to maximize your chance of finding accountability and recovering compensation.