If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you know it can turn your world upside down in an instant. Your top priorities are making sure everyone receives medical attention and that the accident is properly reported. But once the dust settles, there are many legal, financial and insurance issues to address. Far too many accident victims in Texas fail to get the compensation they deserve because they make crucial mistakes in the hours and days following the crash. Avoid these common mistakes to avoid after an accident to protect your rights and get the maximum recovery possible.
Leaving the Scene
One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving the scene of the accident before the police arrive. Even if the accident seems minor, you are required by law to stop immediately and notify law enforcement. Never drive away, even if the other driver tells you to. Fleeing the scene will result in serious legal consequences like fines, license suspension, and even jail time in Texas.
Not Calling the Police
Any accident where there are injuries, deaths, or major property damage requires calling the local police. But even for minor collisions, you’ll want to file an official report. The investigating officer will collect statements, take photos, document skid marks and damage, and cite any violations. Having a police report supports your insurance claim and helps establish fault. Never assume the accident is too small to report.
Neglecting to Gather Information
In the heat of the moment after a crash, it’s easy to neglect collecting critical information you’ll need later. Don’t let the other driver leave without getting their name, address, phone number, insurance details including policy number, driver’s license number, plate number, and VIN. Also, request contact info for any passengers or witnesses. Document the exact time, date, location of the accident, and the weather conditions, and take photos of the accident scene and damage to both vehicles.
Admitting Fault
When speaking to the other driver, police, or your insurance company, avoid admitting fault or accepting blame, even if you think you caused the accident. Anything you say can be used against you later. Stick to just stating the facts of what happened without editorializing. Even if you believe you were at fault, there may be other factors that contributed to the accident that you are not aware of. Let the insurance companies determine fault based on the evidence.
Posting on Social Media
It’s common to vent about the accident on social media or post photos of the damage. But this is never a good idea. Sharing information publicly can negatively impact your injury claim and insurance settlement. Insurance companies will review your posts to find anything they can use against you, like evidence that you exaggerated your injuries. Keep details private until your case is resolved.
Delaying Medical Care
Some accident injuries like whiplash, head trauma, and back injuries have delayed symptoms due to adrenaline. A lot of people refuse transport to the ER at the scene because they feel fine initially. But waking up in pain the next day or even a week later is common. Don’t decline a recommended medical evaluation after an accident. If symptoms like pain, numbness, headaches, or mental fogginess persist for hours, get examined right away so your injuries are documented early.
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
After an accident, insurance companies will try to settle quickly for as little money as possible. Serious injuries often aren’t immediately apparent and take weeks or months to fully manifest. Don’t accept an initial lowball offer until you’ve been fully examined over time and know the true extent of your injuries and vehicle damage. Getting experienced legal advice ensures you get full and fair compensation down the road.
Trying to Handle it Alone
Navigating insurance claims, health providers, car repairs, lost wages, and negotiations is difficult, especially while injured. Don’t try to handle everything alone without legal guidance. Hiring a personal injury lawyer Plano TX takes the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery. Experienced accident lawyers deal with insurance companies every day and know how to build a strong claim for maximum compensation.
Not Documenting Everything
Keep thorough records related to your accident, injuries, and expenses. Save all medical bills, records of missed work and lost income, receipts for medications, transportation, property damage, and any other costs. Also, log details like pain levels, treatment, limitations to your regular activities, and recovery progress. Meticulous documentation strengthens your claim.
Trying to Rush the Settlement
Injuries from car accidents can take weeks or months to fully manifest. Settlement negotiations shouldn’t happen until you’ve completed treatment and know the actual long-term value of your claim. Be wary of adjusters trying to pressure you into an early low settlement. Work with an attorney to ensure you receive full compensation for all your economic and non-economic damages.
Not Understanding Your Policy
Make sure you thoroughly understand what your auto insurance policy actually covers in the event of an accident. Most people don’t realize that Texas is a “fault” state – if the crash was your fault, your insurance pays. But if it was the other driver’s fault, their insurance owes you compensation. Also, know your policy limits for medical payments, uninsured motorist coverage, collision, and liability.
Being Unprepared for Negotiations
Insurance adjusters negotiate accident claims every day, which gives them an advantage over you. Don’t agree to any settlement without understanding the full value of your claim and having a truck accident lawyer Plano TX to represent your best interests. Be prepared with evidence to support your losses and demand reasonable compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
If you’ve been in an auto accident in the Plano area, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys today at 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) for a free consultation. We’ll protect your rights and help you recover the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Don’t jeopardize your claim by making the above common mistakes. Call now for expert legal guidance.
