The moments after an auto accident can be disorienting. As you assess yourself and others for injuries and examine the damage to your vehicle or other property at the scene, you may forget to take certain actions or say something that could complicate the situation. If you’ve suffered an auto accident injury in the Temecula or Murrieta area, you have the right to pursue compensation to help cover the costs incurred by your injury. Make sure you set yourself up for success by avoiding these three common mistakes.
Mistake #1: Not Seeking Medical Attention
If your injuries are severe, chances are you’ll call for an ambulance right away. However, if you are in a state of shock or you don’t think your injuries are significant enough to justify a trip to the hospital, you may jeopardize your health as well as your chances of filing a strong auto accident claim later on. Even if your injuries seem minor, visit a medical professional to have the nature and extent of your injuries documented. This information will be useful when you decide to pursue a claim in the future.
Mistake #2: Admitting Fault
For many people, it may feel natural to claim some responsibility for the accident. Even saying “I’m sorry” could weaken your position, so it’s best to say as little as possible at the scene. The incident may have involved several complex factors, so hold off on any feelings of responsibility until experts reconstruct the accident and determine what happened. It’s essential to avoid admitting fault when talking to any insurance company; don’t let a few words jeopardize your chances of recovering the compensation you need to make a full recovery.
Mistake #3: Handling an Auto Accident Claim on Your Own
While it’s possible to navigate the claims process on your own, you’re much more likely to recover a fair amount of compensation when you enlist the assistance of an experienced auto accident lawyer. As you focus on your physical recovery, the last thing you want to deal with is a tense conversation with an insurance company. Let your attorney step in to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation helps auto accident victims in the Temecula and Murrieta areas recover the compensation they deserve. Call (951) 489-3320 today to get started.