A Providence auto accident can be very traumatic and terrifying, a person in shock can end up making mistakes that can harm his chance of a fair insurance claim. It is understandable, given these circumstances, that one could significantly diminish his/her ability to make choices. The thousands of dollars one could lose in making these wrong choices show how important it is for you to know the common mistakes that a person makes after being in a car accident.
Common Auto Accident Mistakes That You Must Avoid:
- Failing to go to a healthcare professional or institution immediately after the accident.
- Failing to document the scene
- Sharing your medical history
- Saying you are fine or uninjured
- Giving estimates for damages
- Admitting any fault
- Settling quickly
- Failing to consult with an experienced lawyer.
See a doctor after a car accident, even if you think that you only suffered minor injuries. The medical record proves that the injury, no matter how minor it is, was caused by the accident.
If you can, take pictures of your injuries, of the damaged caused, of the location, or anything that can support your statements about the accident.
Insurance companies will, as much as possible, try to minimize payment for your injuries. Providing them access to your medical history will present chances for them to use a previous incident to claim that an injury was present before the accident occurred.
Even if you feel fine at the moment, only a doctor can tell if you have suffered an injury or not. Chances are, injuries will appear several days or even weeks after the accident. Do not risk the chance of not being compensated for an injury you sustained.
The truth is you do not really know how much it is going to cost you to have your car fixed. Do not throw out a random estimate for the damages. Consult your car dealer before making an estimate.
Even if you feel that you may have been at fault, never say that you caused the accident because this is yet to be decided. Any hint that you may have been at fault could be taken as an admission of fault. They will use your words to lower the amount of settlement.
Some insurance companies settle quickly. If you agree with their terms, you deny yourself a chance to properly assess the cost of the damages. You may have avoided going through the tedious process of dealing with an insurance claim procedure, but you will soon find yourself paying more than what you agreed to be compensated for. Decline any offer until you have consulted with your doctor, your car dealer and a your lawyer.
Speak to an experienced car accident lawyer. This lawyer will guide you through the entire process and ensure that your best interests are served and you are justly compensated for all the injuries and damages sustained.
Contacting a Providence Auto Accident Lawyer:
If you need a Providence auto accident lawyer, please call the Law Offices of d’Oliveira & Associates at (401) 831-8600, located at 390 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909, for a free legal consultation. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation.