If another driver leaves you injured in a car accident, you have plenty going on. Keeping the four major mistakes that you should avoid in mind, however, can help you move forward with a clearer purpose and with a greater chance of obtaining just compensation.
Mistake 1: Failing to Obtain Medical Attention
If you have been involved in a car accident of any significant magnitude, it is important to seek immediate medical attention – even if you do not think you have suffered serious injuries. In reality, very serious injuries can be slow to cause you pain or even to become noticeable, and the stress and shock associated with car accidents can mask the pain you do feel. The longer you wait to seek medical attention, the longer your injury has to become more serious and more difficult to effectively treat. (Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Care after a Car Accident)
Mistake 2: Failing to Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
While we are on the topic, let’s talk about your doctor’s instructions. Failing to follow them can leave you with even more serious health concerns and an even more difficult path forward toward recovery. Carefully adhering to your doctor’s instructions, however, also sends a clear message to the insurance company involved in your claim that you take the injuries you have sustained – as a result of their client’s negligence – very seriously and that it should as well.
(Related: Ask Your Doctor These Questions After a Car Accident)
Mistake 3: Failing to Consult with an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
After obtaining medical attention – and ensuring that you take care of your health in accordance with your doctor’s instructions – consulting with an experienced car accident attorney is something you do not want to forego. Working closely with a dedicated car accident attorney can mean the difference between obtaining just compensation that covers your full array of damages and not doing so.
Mistake 4: Accepting the Insurance Company’s Early Settlement Offer
If another driver’s negligence leaves you injured in a car accident, you are going to be dealing with his or her insurance company, and this company is very invested in maximizing its profits and minimizing your settlement. If the insurance company swoops in with an early settlement offer, it is most likely attempting to settle your claim before you become fully aware of how extensive your damages are. Other tricks of the insurance trade can include:
Prolonging the claims process to the point that you give up
Complicating the claims process to the point that you lose track of your claim
Denying claims outright
Attempting to shift blame away from the at-fault driver’s negligence and toward you
Denying the extent of the physical, financial, and emotional damages you have suffered
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Reach out to an Experienced Killeen Car Accident Attorney Today
Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard is a skilled Killeen car accident attorney who understands the gravity of your situation and is committed to skillfully advocating for your claim’s optimal outcome. For more information about how we can help, please do not wait to contact us online or call us at 254-501-4040 today.
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