When it comes to what to do in the moment after car accidents, there are common misconceptions. Take a moment to review the steps you should take to protect yourself.
Myth: You don’t need to call the police
Truth: If you’re in a car accident, call the police to the scene to assess injuries and create an accident report. A police report presents a determination of the accident cause and the resulting damage. The document is often crucial to any legal case and to successfully filing a claim for damages. Without a police report, it’s your word against the other driver’s.
Click here to read more about the importance of police reports from Johnson & Biscone attorney James J. Biscone.
Myth: You don’t need to visit a doctor unless you have significant injuries
Truth: Seek medical attention as soon as possible after an auto accident. Even if you don’t feel pain immediately, you could still be seriously injured. Often, adrenaline fools people into believing they aren’t hurt.
When medical attention is delayed, it’s easy for an insurance company to say the injuries weren’t caused by the crash. In some cases, your claim will be reduced or denied because medical treatment wasn’t sought soon enough.
Myth: The other driver and I can work it out
Truth: Any accident beyond a minor fender bender may require legal assistance. While you may think it’s less hassle to exclude attorneys, it can be dangerous. You may find yourself admitting fault, even by mistake, if you choose to negotiate with the other driver on your own.
Myth: The insurance company will take care of everything
Truth: Relying only on insurance companies to cover costs associated with an accident is risky. You don’t have to take an insurance company’s first settlement offer, and you should hire an attorney to help you navigate the process and get the compensation you deserve. Keep a detailed timeline of events, and log all calls and documents received from the insurance company to strengthen your case.
Myth: A passenger in a car hit by another vehicle can’t recover compensation
Truth: Even if you’re just a passenger, you have legal rights. Injured passengers can file claims against all drivers responsible for the accident. You may seek compensation from the insurance company of the responsible driver or the insurance company covering the vehicle the passenger was in.
For more than 40 years, Johnson & Biscone has been fighting for clients with personal injury claims. Your initial consultation with an accident attorney is free. Take a step toward getting the compensation you deserve and contact us today at 405-232-6490.