Knowing what to do after you have been injured in a car accident in Beaufort, SC can be confusing. The good news is that if you avoid these common mistakes, it can make a big difference in how your claim goes and whether you receive a fair settlement. Here are 5 mistakes to avoid when you are involved in a Beaufort, SC car accident.
1: Not Seeing a Doctor – Even If You Do Not Feel Injured
After being involved in a car accident, you will feel lucky if you walk away feeling okay. Often times, though, some injures do not show up right away. You may start to feel pain or stiffness several hours, or even days, later. Visiting a doctor immediately after your car accident helps protect your health (most important) but also makes your accident claim stronger. Medical records are important evidence when you need to prove your injuries to the insurance company.
2: Speaking Too Much to the Insurance Company
You will likely receive a phone call from the insurance company very soon after your car accident. During the call, the insurance representative will ask you details about the accident and your injuries. It’s easy to say too much, especially when you are upset and stressed. Keep in mind, being too open during the phone call has the potential to hurt your accident claim. The insurance representative may try to use what you say against you later on in the process. If you do talk to the adjuster, keep your answers brief without much detail, and consider speaking with a Beaufort, SC car accident attorney before giving a full statement.
3: Failing to Collect Evidence and Documentation
If you are able to safely do so, right after the accident take pictures of the accident scene, the damage to the cars, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses to your accident, ask for their contact information and write this information down in a safe location. Documenting as much as you can about what happened is crucial to providing clear evidence as to what happened. Also, keep a folder of all medical bills, repair estimates and bills, and all other expenses related to your accident, such as travel expenses to and from the doctor(s), loss of work, etc. Evidence like this helps strengthen your car accident claim and helps attorneys like me advocate for you against the insurance company.
4: Accepting the First Settlement Offer
It’s very easy to be tempted to accept the first settlement offer, especially if you just want to move on and put the accident behind you. However, that first offer is usually much lower than what you may actually deserve. Always keep in mind that the insurance company’s goal is usually to settle for as little as possible. Before accepting an offer, it is highly recommended to speak with a car accident attorney in Beaufort, SC who can evaluate the total costs of your accident, help you understand what a fair settlement may be, and fight for the settlement you deserve.
5: Not Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
Some people who are injured in a car accident may think they do not need to hire a car accident attorney. This is a mistake, even for accidents that may not be considered severe or major. A car accident attorney representing you can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. An attorney can help protect your rights, handle the insurance company, and make sure you’re not taken advantage of. An attorney can also protect you from giving too much information to the insurance company and/or accepting a low settlement offer.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding the above common mistakes after a car accident in Beaufort, SC can help you get the settlement you deserve. Remember to see a doctor, be careful with what you say to the insurance company, keep records of everything, and consult with a car accident attorney. Each of these steps helps protect your rights and improve your chances for a fair settlement.