The moments following a car accident can be frightening, to say the least. However, what you do, or fail to do, during these tense moments is crucial to the outcome of your personal injury claim. This might sound absurd, but it is true.
While struggling to find your bearing after a car wreck, you can easily make mistakes that can jeopardise your case. To boost your odds of maximising your compensation, it is important that you steer clear of these mistakes:
Failing to call 911
Calling the police to the accident scene is not optional. In fact, per New Jersey car accident report basics, you are required to call the police to the scene if the accident results in injury, death or property damage in excess of $500.
Sometimes, the other driver might persuade you to settle the matter amongst yourselves. However, this can be a costly mistake down the road, especially if they change their mind.
Speaking to the insurance company alone
Most often, the other driver’s insurance company will contact you for a settlement offer. Never give them a statement or answer questions in the absence of your legal counsel. Remember, the insurance company is in business to safeguard its bottom line. As such, it is not uncommon for the adjuster to ask questions that will absolve them from financial liability.
Talking about your case online
Chances are you have a social media profile. And chances are you will want to share your “brush with death” with the world. However, this can be a costly mistake. The insurance company will be on the lookout for anything they can use to undermine your case, and that includes your social media posts. To be safe, do not post the matter online.
Even if you do not sustain life-altering injuries, a car accident can leave you emotionally shaken. Do not let the chaos of the moment cost you the compensation you may be rightfully entitled to after a car wreck.