It’s natural to feel overwhelmed and disoriented after an auto accident in Southern California. As you assess yourself and others at the scene for major injuries, there are several steps you’ll need to take to preserve your chances of filing a successful auto accident claim later on. Even minor oversights or missteps can jeopardize the strength of your claim, preventing you from obtaining the full amount of compensation you need to support your recovery. Here are three mistakes to avoid following an auto accident injury in Riverside County.
1. Underestimating Your Injuries
Many auto accident victims initially think that their injuries do not warrant medical attention. They may assume that their injuries are not “that bad” and fail to visit a doctor following the accident. Unfortunately, symptoms may worsen days or weeks after the accident, and failing to assess and treat these injuries right away can lead to a more protracted and more expensive recovery. Even if you think your injuries are mild, visit a physician for an assessment. This documentation will show that you took your injuries seriously, which will help to build a compelling auto accident claim later on.
2. Admitting Fault or Revealing Too Much Information
Even if the accident was not your fault, you might feel tempted to apologize at the scene or claim responsibility in some way. However, doing so can severely damage your auto accident claim, as the insurance adjusters may interpret your show of concern as an admission of guilt. It’s usually best to say as little as possible, especially when communicating with insurance adjusters. If you’re worried about falling for their tactics and attempts to undermine your claim, refer the adjusters to your auto accident lawyer, who will handle these communications on your behalf.
3. Failing to Work With a Temecula Auto Accident Lawyer
While California does not require that auto accident victims work with an attorney to pursue an auto accident claim, doing so can maximize your chances of recovering a fair and favorable settlement. Suffering a physical injury is overwhelming enough—you don’t need the additional stress of battling insurance companies to obtain the compensation you deserve. Your Temecula auto accident lawyer will handle settlement negotiations and work to secure you the compensation you need to support your recovery and help you get your life back on track.
If you need help recovering compensation following an auto accident injury in Temecula or Murrieta, call Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation, today at (951) 489-3320.