Mistakes to Avoid to Maximize Your Recovery
If you’re hurt in an automobile accident because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a legal claim for compensation for your injuries and losses. Though your emotions may run high, and you may have fears and anxieties about how the accident will affect your life, you need to be careful that you don’t do anything careless that could jeopardize your full recovery.
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
The only way you should ever leave the scene of an accident before police arrive is in an ambulance. It doesn’t matter where you’re headed or how important it is. If you leave the scene of the accident, it will appear that either you were responsible or your injuries were insignificant. Furthermore, Texas law requires anyone who suffers personal or property injury in a car accident to immediately stop the vehicle. You can be ticketed if you don’t.
Don’t Agree Not to Call the Police
Regardless of the severity of the crash and your injuries, you should always call 911 to report a motor vehicle accident. The police will then prepare and file an accident report, which can be highly persuasive in a personal injury lawsuit.
Don ‘t Minimize Your Injuries
When you’re involved in any type of collision, it’s not the time to be tough or shake things off. Be willing to acknowledge that you’re hurt. If you need immediate medical care, be willing to travel to the hospital in an ambulance. Otherwise, seek treatment as soon as possible. Go to the emergency department or an urgent care facility on your own, or schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.
Don’t Admit Liability or Take Blame
It’s common for both parties to have some responsibility for a motor vehicle accident. If you do, and you make a statement admitting it, an insurance company might use the statement against you in an effort to avoid liability. Even when answering questions from police officers, resist the urge to allocate blame—stick to the facts. In addition, avoid phrases such as “I’m sorry” or “I don’t know what I was thinking.” Those can also be construed as admissions of fault.
Pay Attention to What You Post on Social Media
You can expect that attorneys for the at-fault party or for insurers will have access to anything you post on social media. If they see pictures of you doing things that suggest you’re not seriously injured or language that indicates you fabricated part of your claim, you can expect the jury to hear about it.
Never Talk to an Insurance Company, Agent, or Adjuster Without Your Lawyer
Insurance companies are for-profit entities with a vested interest in paying you as little as possible. They work with people just like you all the time, and they know how to get you to take less than you deserve. If an insurance adjuster or representative calls you, simply refer them to your attorney; do not engage in conversation. Refuse to meet with them unless your attorney is present. Regardless of how much you need the money, do not accept a settlement offer without consulting with your attorney.
Contact the Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers at Bailey & Galyen
At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we know how injuries suffered in a car accident can affect every area of your life. If you’re hurt because of the negligent acts of another person, send us an email or call our offices at 844-402-2992. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
