9 Mistakes to Avoid While Filing a Car Accident Claim
Jan 13, 2023
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No one wakes up one day and plans on getting into a car accident, but they happen all the time. From fender benders to more severe accidents, knowing how to file for a car accident claim can help you get the compensation you deserve.Unfortunately, not everyone knows what they need to do when filing for a car accident claim. When mistakes happen, it can delay or prevent compensation. Car accident lawyers like DaveAbels.com are great at helping you know what to do. We’ve gathered the nine main mistakes you must avoid when filing a car accident claim to help you out.
1. Leaving the Scene
You should never leave the scene of an accident, no matter how small it is. You’ll probably need to move your car from roadways, but leaving the scene, even if you’re not at fault, can cause significant issues when filing your claim. You can even face misdemeanor or felony charges!
2. Admitting It Was Your Fault
Even if the accident was your fault, you shouldn’t admit it at the scene or to the person you hit. Saying “I’m sorry” probably is the first thing to come to your mind, but that is admitting fault. When filing your claim, even if it’s not your fault and anything you’ve said can be interpreted as a fault, it can complicate your car accident claim.
3. Not Calling Law Enforcement
No matter how minor the accident was, not calling the police can cause issues for your claim. Without police involvement, it’s your word against the other driver(s), which can negatively affect you later. Another tip always gets the officers’ badge number and name.
4. Not Taking Photos of the Scene
Your insurance company will ask for any evidence from the accident, so you must take photos and videos. You’ll want to take pictures of your car, the other car, and the area of the accident that might help prove fault and support your claim.
5. Not Gathering Contact Information From Others Involved or Witnesses
In addition to taking pictures and videos, you’ll want to gather the contact information from the other person/persons involved and any witnesses to the accident. The police will also do this, but to cover all your bases, you must do the same. Without all the contact information, things can become complicated for you.
6. Not Going To a Doctor
Even for minor accidents, skipping over to the doctor can be easy. It would be best if you didn’t do this. Minor accidents can still cause physical pain, and if you’re in pain but there’s no medical proof of this, your car accident claim might not get you as much compensation as you desire or deserve.
7. Waiting Too Long To File a Car Accident Claim
You should file your car accident claim ASAP. The longer you wait, not only will you wait longer for a compensation decision, but it can make companies think you’re not as injured as you say. It’s always best to file your claim the same day or even the day after.
8. Not Calling Your Insurance Company
With all the craziness that can go on at a car accident scene, many people forget to call their insurance company when they get home. It might feel like an extra thing to do, but you need to contact your insurance company quickly. Most policies require you to report an accident as soon as possible anyway.
9. Not Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
A huge mistake most people make is not hiring a car accident attorney. Even if you have a minor accident, hiring a knowledgeable and skilled attorney can help with your claim and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Car accidents are disorienting, confusing, and scary, regardless of their severity. When you’re caught up in the moment, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect your claim. Knowing the main errors and avoiding them can help you feel less stressed and get the compensation you deserve when you file your claim.
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