If you’re involved in a car accident in Scottsdale, it’s important to understand that the road to recovery may be long and challenging. In addition to sustaining injuries and dealing with vehicle damage, you’ll also need to navigate the legal system to receive compensation for your damages. Unfortunately, there are several mistakes that people often make when pursuing a car accident lawsuit. In this article, we will discuss the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Not Reporting the Accident to the Police
One of the most important things to do after being in a car accident is to report it to the police. Not only is it the law in Arizona, but it also helps to establish a legal record of what occurred. The police report can be used as evidence when filing a claim for damages. By failing to report the accident to the police, you could hurt your chances of receiving compensation.
Failing to Document Everything
When involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to document everything. Take photos of the scene, damage to your vehicle, your injuries, and any other evidence that you feel is relevant to the case. This documentation is necessary to support your claim and can help strengthen your case. In addition to taking photos, be sure to obtain the contact information of witnesses and the other driver(s) involved.
Not Seeking Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
It’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible following a car accident, even if you don’t feel injured. Injuries can sometimes not show symptoms right away, but waiting to be examined can harm your legal case. In addition to helping identify injuries that may not be immediately apparent, medical records can also be used as evidence to support your case.
Not Informing the Insurance Company
Many people make the mistake of not informing their insurance company after a car accident. It’s essential to report the accident to your insurance company so that they can protect your rights to legal coverage and help fund medical bills. Failing to notify can cause delays by delaying your claim from the insurer if another party is involved and responsible for the accident.
Speaking with At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company
You should avoid speaking directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The insurance adjuster is trained to minimize the amount of compensation that you receive for damages that you are entitled to. The adjuster works for the insurance company, which has financial incentives to pay as little as possible. Instead, contact a lawyer who has experience dealing with insurance companies.
Speaking With Your Own Insurance Company By Yourself
Another common mistake that people make in a car accident lawsuit is speaking with their own insurance company. Without legal guidance, you may say something that weakens your case or hurts your chances of receiving the compensation that you deserve. Insurance claims adjusters are trained to settle for as little as possible, so it’s essential to have legal representation when speaking with them. Yes, even your own company will look to minimize the possibility of liability, even if you’re not at fault. What should you not say to a Scottsdale insurance adjuster after a car accident?
Waiting Too Long to File an Accident Claim
Arizona laws permit a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. So you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you risk losing the ability to sue the other party for damages. This can result in you having to pay for medical bills out of your pocket. To ensure that you have the best possible chance of receiving compensation, don’t wait too long to file an accident claim.
Using Social Media in Any Capacity
One of the most common mistakes is using social media after a car accident. Insurance companies and defense lawyers are aware of social media, and they will use any information you post against you. A picture of you out with friends after the accident could provide evidence against you by showing you’re not hurt as badly as you claim. A post about feeling well after the accident may be used to contradict your claims of pain. It is highly advised that if you’re going through a car accident lawsuit, deactivate all social media platforms.
Not Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Finally, the most common mistake is not hiring a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer can help review your case, gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and represent you in court. Having a lawyer by your side can help ensure that you receive the compensation that you rightfully deserve. An experienced car accident lawyer will also help you avoid any of the mistakes mentioned here. Lawsuits can take years to settle, so having someone look out for your well-being at times when you can become complacent is imperative to achieving the best outcome.
Car accidents are never a joyous experience. They can be traumatic and stressful and can take a physical and mental toll on the individuals involved. That’s why it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes when pursuing a car accident lawsuit. At Thomas Law, our focus is to help our clients obtain the compensation they deserve after an accident in Scottsdale, AZ. We have expertise in dealing with insurance companies and ensuring that our clients receive their compensation in a timely fashion. So, take the first step and give us a call today to schedule a consultation and expert opinion.
FAQs
Q: What should you not say to a Scottsdale insurance adjuster after a car accident?
A: When dealing with a Scottsdale insurance adjuster after a car accident, it’s important to be cautious about what you say. Avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be used against you later. Instead, it’s best to consult with a car accident lawyer who can guide you through the process and handle communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
Conclusion
Filing a car accident lawsuit in Scottsdale requires careful navigation of the legal system and avoiding common pitfalls. By understanding and avoiding these mistakes, you can increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Remember to report the accident to the police, document everything, seek medical attention promptly, inform your insurance company, and avoid speaking directly with insurance adjusters. Additionally, it’s crucial to hire a car accident lawyer to guide you through the process and protect your rights. By following these steps, you can ensure a smoother journey towards recovering your damages and achieving justice.