There are more than 5 million car collisions reported each year in the U.S. These accidents lead to 33,000 deaths and 2.2 million injuries. It is therefore sad and shocking how many people inadvertently damage their valid personal injury claims by making a few key mistakes after the accident (whether due to ignorance or the trauma of the accident).
In this blog we take a look at some of the common mistakes that weaken or discredit a lot of people’s personal injury claims:
NEVER admit guilt
This can even include simply saying “I’m sorry” to the other driver! Just exchange insurance info and keep quiet. As soon as you’ve admitted that it was your fault, it will be very hard to receive a fair settlement. Remember: Even when you might be under the perception that it was your fault, you don’t have all the facts, and you may not be responsible at all.
Take photos
An accident scene is a confusing place. It’s where everything seems to happen at once whilst you’re in a state of shock. In all this confusion, many forget to take photos. Just grab your phone and take photos of the cars, the scene, and anything else that might seem important to you. It’s better to have too many photos than too few. This will help your attorney build a case on your behalf.
Call the police
If there is someone at the accident scene trying to dissuade you from phoning the police, it’s most probably the one that’s at fault. It is absolutely critical to phone the police. Not only does this allow you to claim from your insurance company, but you also have a credible source to back up your story.
Don’t miss your chance to bring a claim. Don’t delay.
There are very strict statutes of limitations when it comes to personal injury claims. If you don’t pursue your claim before the allowable period expires, your claim could be barred. It could also affect whether you get the amount of compensation you truly deserve.
NEVER say you’re okay
After an accident your survival mode kicks in, adrenaline is coursing through your veins, and you may actually not be aware of all your injuries. Some symptoms take a couple of days before they present themselves. It’s better to let first responders know about every symptom you may already be feeling—even if it doesn’t seem too serious to you, it might be something that snowballs into something serious later on. If for some reason you don’t want to be taken to a hospital, simply say that you don’t feel like going to the hospital “right now.”
Don’t represent yourself
A lot of people opt to settle the case themselves. The saying goes: “Whoever represents themselves has a fool for a client.” You do not have the experience or knowledge of the legal processes involved in an Oregon personal injury claim, and the odds are very slim that you will know what your claim is really worth. Having a lawyer will help you settle the claim much faster so you can get back to living your life. If you are looking for a professional to help you navigate tricky legal pitfalls when it comes to Oregon personal injury claims, contact ClarkeGriffin, LLC today.
