2 Mistakes After a Car Accident That Could Hurt Your Future Claim
In the minutes following a car accident, the chaos that ensues can make it hard for you to think clearly. As a result of the surrounding destruction, pain, and pumping adrenaline, you may be at risk of doing or neglecting to do something that could hurt you later. Make sure that you do not make the following mistakes that could hurt you when it comes time to file a claim with your insurance company and against the other driver.
1. Allowing Your Emotions to Take Over at the Scene
Especially if the accident was not your fault, your emotions may start running pretty high as you try to process what just happened. While confusion may be a major feeling, anger will most likely become a factor when you start to interact with the other party to get their name and insurance information.
Although you may have every right to be mad and maybe even hurting, try not to allow your emotions to take over at the scene. You do not want to become verbally abusive or say too much about the accident that could be misconstrued, especially in front of witnesses and the police.
If you say too much, the statements you make in that moment of passion could be quoted and turned around to show that you were responsible. This could then backfire on you, making it not only difficult to prove that the other party was responsible but also making it seem like you are the one who is liable.
2. Neglecting to Take Any or Enough Pictures of the Scene
Another mistake that you should avoid while still at the scene of the accident is neglecting to take any or enough pictures. The evidence that you gather while the accident scene is still fresh can be vital to proving what happened and can help your lawyer get the compensation you deserve.
When taking pictures, do not just concentrate on the damage on your and the other party's vehicles. You should also take photos of the weather conditions, the road, and anything else in the surrounding environment that may have contributed to the accident. If you are unable to take the pictures because you are injured, have someone trustworthy take them for you.
Keeping cool after an accident and making sure to document the scene can help you in the aftermath while you are trying to prove your claim to be compensated for any damages or injuries. Contact an auto accident attorney as soon as possible after the incident to discuss the case and receive legal guidance as you go throughout the process.