5 Mistakes to Avoid Devaluing Your Car Accident Claim
Car accident scenes are often confusing and shocking. The days and weeks following may also be just as overwhelming and disorienting. However, you must remember that your statement and actions at the accident scene and in the weeks and months that follow may impact your ability to present a successful car accident claim in Colorado.
While injuries from a car accident that resulted from another driver’s negligent actions may entitle you to pursue financial compensation, you must avoid making critical mistakes throughout the proceedings that may devalue your claim. One way to avoid making these errors is to contact a Colorado car accident attorney.
Mistakes that May Negatively Impact a Colorado Car Accident Claim
It is important to remember that just because you were in a car accident does not mean you are guaranteed compensation from the other driver. To obtain compensation, your attorney must prove that the other driver acted negligently, and their negligence caused your injuries, damages, and losses. You must also avoid some of the most significant and common mistakes that may harm your car accident case. To help you avoid these mistakes, we have compiled a list of the most common ones.
Not Seeking Medical Attention or Ignoring a Doctor’s Advice
When you do not seek medical attention immediately after an accident, insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not severe or happened elsewhere. Additionally, not all injuries are visible, but they are often the ones that can cause the most harm.
Scheduling a doctor’s appointment is not your only health-related responsibility following a car accident. You must follow your doctor’s care plan and attend all follow-up appointments. Ignoring these steps may imply that you are not as injured as you initially claimed.
Posting on Social Media about the Accident
Always be careful what you post on social media platforms. While it might feel natural to update your family and friends, you should exercise great caution when posting about your car accident. Insurance adjusters and attorneys will look at your social media accounts to find information that might help their case and hurt yours. Do not write or share anything regarding your injuries or recovery process. Furthermore, it is not just your social accounts that may harm your claim. Advise your friends and family members not to post anything about the case because the opposing side may use these posts against you, as well.
Admitting Fault to the Crash
The only way to determine what happened leading up to the car accident is by launching an investigation. Never apologize, accept blame, or admit fault in the aftermath of a car accident to the other driver, any witnesses, or police officers. Only inform your attorney if you think you may have played a role in causing the collision. They will only share that information if and when it is necessary.
Accepting the First Settlement
Insurers know that you are in a vulnerable position following a Colorado car accident, and they will use that against you. They know that you are stressed, meaning they will try to have you accept a quick settlement. That way, your case closes before you even know the full extent of your injuries and damages. Once you accept an offer, you will not be able to receive more compensation if your injuries or damages are more severe than you initially thought. Before you accept a settlement offer, have your lawyer review it.
Not Hiring a Colorado Car Accident Attorney
If you sustained injuries in a car accident, you would likely benefit from a Colorado car accident attorney’s skill, experience, support, and guidance. Many people think they can handle an accident claim by themselves, but Colorado’s personal injury laws are complex. One misinterpretation of the law may cost you your entire settlement or may significantly impact the value of your claim by diminishing it.
A car accident attorney can review the details of your case and explain to you your legal options. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and take your case to court, if necessary.
Contact a Skilled Car Accident Attorney in Colorado Today
If you were recently in a car accident in Colorado, contact Kim Welch Law today. We can help you avoid these five common mistakes that may devalue your car accident claim in Colorado. You can count on us to provide you with advice for every aspect of your case from start to finish. Recognized by the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 list and the BBB, you can count on Attorney Kim Welch to fight for you and your case. To schedule a free consultation, call (888) 590-5510 complete our contact form.