An automobile accident is a life-altering experience. Suing is an avenue worth considering. A court is a complicated system. There are pitfalls galore waiting for you. You ought to know about them. That keeps you safe. That is how you have a better chance. The common pitfalls prevalent in lawsuits are listed below. How you can avoid them is detailed below.
Waiting Too Long: Time Is of the Essence
One of the greatest mistakes is delay in filing suit. There are statutes of limitation. They set deadlines for filing suit. If these deadlines are not met, your suit will be dismissed. Do not delay and assume there is lots of time. Consult with a lawyer earlier rather than later. They will tell you about deadlines that bind you. They can file your suit on time as needed.
Failure to Secure Enough Evidence: A Case Weaker Than Water
Evidence is the backbone of any successful car accident claim. This encompasses police reports. This encompasses medical records. This encompasses witness statements. This encompasses photos and video of the accident scene. Failing to get enough evidence hurts your case. Liability is hard to prove. Damages are hard to prove. Get evidence early following the accident. Document everything.
Admitting Fault: Short-changing Your Claim
Never apologize or acknowledge fault at the scene of the accident. You were at least partially at fault, but never make a statement that can be construed as fault. That will be used against you by insurance adjusters and opposing lawyers. Rather, collect information. Trade contact information. Take a picture. Allow investigation to determine fault.
Lowballing Your Injuries: Getting Proper Medical Care
Most accident victims downplay the injury. Adrenaline is a painkiller. There are also injuries that take time to develop. Get medical attention immediately. Be under the doctor’s care. Go to all appointments. Not documenting your injuries weakens your claim. It can lead to low awards.
Dealing with Insurance Companies Yourself: Protecting Your Interest
The insurance firms want to offer you the lowest figure that you will accept. They will do everything to cheat you out of it. You do not have to talk to them. All the conversations should be done through your lawyer. They will defend you. They will keep you from saying something that will be utilized against your claim.
Failure to Hire a Competent Attorney: Failure to Know When to Hire an Expert
Car accident law is complex. It requires special training and experience. Not all lawyers handle these cases. Choose a lawyer who focuses on personal injury law. Choose a lawyer with a winning record in car accident cases. They know the nuances of these cases. They know how to deal with insurance companies. They know how to build a strong case.
Ignoring Non-Economic Damages: Asking for Complete Compensation
Most victims of accidents only think of economic damages. These are medical bills and lost wages. Though non-economic damages are also thought of. These are pain and suffering. These are emotional distress. These are loss of enjoyment of life. Do not forget these damages. They can, in fact, add to your compensation.
Disregarding Expert Legal Advice: Trusting Your Lawyer’s Capability
After assigning an attorney, move back and let them do their part. They are professionals and know how to handle themselves in the area of law. Listen to them. They will advise you on what to do based on what they learn from the law and regarding your case. Disregard of legal counsel can ruin your case.
Failure to Keep Evidence: Staying Safe Important Information
Evidence can be lost or destroyed. Preserve all evidence that is pertinent. That includes pictures and video. That includes witness contact information. That includes maintenance records on your vehicle. That includes your medical records. Make copies. Keep it safe.
Accepting a Quick Settlement: Knowing Your Rights
Most of the insurance companies will offer you a fast settlement. They’re going to offer you pennies on the dollar. Don’t accept it. Get informed. Consult with your attorney. They can advise you if the offer is fair or not. They can negotiate for you for a higher settlement.
Confusing the Complications of the Case: Find Experts
Car accident claims carry a lot of procedural and legal niceties that make them extremely complicated. Their complexity can never be understated in your claim. Professional assistance is required. Very experienced lawyer can serve to penetrate this complexity and guide the adequate handling of your case in court.
Conclusion
Do not fall into these traps. It is your safeguard for your rights. It is your best chance of winning. Do not delay in speaking with an attorney. Document everything. Take seriously what your lawyer says to you. Get an edge in advance, and you can win by working the system. You can get the amount of money that you deserve.
