Injured in an accident? What not to do after a car accident in Northeast Philadelphia
Personal Injury and Car Accident Attorneys serving clients in Bucks County and Northeast Philadelphia
As anyone who has been in even a minor automobile accident can attest, shock and surprise are the first emotions you feel. However, it is crucial to understand how you respond to the situation that can impact whether you’re able to receive a fair recovery for your damages and possible injuries. Sadly, after an accident, victims often make mistakes that can prevent them from getting the compensation they may need and deserve.
Accidents on Pennsylvania roads are a far too common occurrence. In fact according to penndot.gov, a Pennsylvania government agency, in 2018, there were 128,420 reportable traffic crashes in Pennsylvania. Though you may understand the steps you should take after an accident, what not to do can often be as important as what to do.
Most common errors made by accident victims:
Failing to call the police
It is the responsibility of the police to collect valuable evidence that can work in your favor. Despite the fact that the police should be a neutral third party the information they collect and the document can help you build your case. Furthermore, their work can be invaluable as a launching point for your claim for recovery. They should track down witnesses and take statements, provide photographs, and collect evidence and information on the scene that no one else can duplicate. Also, if the other motorist receives a traffic ticket it can go a long way toward proving that they’re at fault for the crash. Moreover, your insurance company may need the report in the filing of your claim.
Admitting Guilt
It’s perfectly natural to feel sorry about what has happened. You may want to make yourself, or the other people involved feel better by saying that you are sorry. However, apologizing after a motor vehicle accident is highly inadvisable. Just as in criminal cases, things that you say can be used against you. It is best to admit no-fault and let your attorney represent you and your position.
Not gathering evidence
Personally gathering any evidence that you can at the accident scene can help your case immensely. Fresh evidence and statements are often given greater weight by the courts as they tend to be unrehearsed and more reliable. Obviously, if you have serious injuries, medical treatment should be your number one priority. After that, it is highly recommended that you do everything you can to gather evidence.
Photos of the scene, damage to your vehicle and your injuries will help prove to your insurance company and the courts the extent of compensation that you should receive. You should write down the names of all witnesses and their contact information. Gathering evidence at the site of the accident will give your attorney a great place to start when they launch their investigation.
Not visiting a doctor
Not only for your own health and well-being, it’s important to go to your physician in order to document your injuries. Your claim for recovery will rest on verified injuries. Simply saying that you got hurt is not enough for the courts. Creating a record of the exact nature and extent of your injuries and prognosis is absolutely critical toward receiving compensation for your injuries.
Placing too much trust in your insurance company
It is important to remember that even your insurance company is in the business of making money. Every dollar that the insurance company refuses to pay you is a dollar kept in profit for them. Consequently, insurance companies have an incentive to water down and even deny quality claims.
They may also try to convince you to settle quickly, however, the first offer is seldom the best offer. Having an independent injury lawyer to evaluate your claim is highly recommended. They can give you the confidence to know that you’re getting a fair deal, or they can explain why you should continue to fight for justice.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help?
Put simply a qualified and experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can help you avoid errors. They can work for you and with you to ensure that you’re making the best possible decisions in your case and that you eventually receive what you are entitled to under the law. Going to your case alone will make it much more likely that you will make mistakes that may cost you in the long run.
A fair settlement will help you to recover from your injuries and move on with your life. Making common mistakes after sustaining injuries in an auto accident can greatly lower your chances of getting the compensation you need and deserve to recover fully.
Injured in a crash? Consult a Bucks County Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney to Protect Your Rights
At Cohen & Riechelson, our team of attorneys are experienced in supporting and fiercely representing our clients who have been involved in all types of motor vehicle accidents in Bensalem, Levittown, Feasterville and across Bucks and Philadelphia Counties, PA. No matter your situation you don’t have to confront it alone.
Please connect with our firm today in a confidential and comprehensive assessment of your case. Contact us at (215) 337-4915 today to speak with a member of our staff in a free and confidential consultation or visit our online form regarding your accident.