The aftermath of a motor vehicle collision can be incredibly expensive. Many people expect to receive appropriate compensation after a crash, but they may then make mistakes that undermine their chances of getting the compensation that they deserve.
Even the safest drivers generally need to be aware of common mistakes after car crashes so that they can avoid replicating those errors. The five mistakes below can diminish how much compensation people receive after collisions.
Choosing not to file a report
Anytime one of the people involved sustains injuries or the crash generates $500 or more in property damage expenses, a report is mandatory. Agreeing to settle the matter privately and to not involve authorities can make it more difficult for people to pursue insurance compensation or a lawsuit later.
Apologizing or not explaining concerns
During the crash reporting process, there are two common mistakes that people make. Some drivers apologize to police officers and other first responders. They do so out of a sense of politeness, but others might misconstrue that as an admission of fault. Other people may keep mostly to themselves during the crash reporting process. Police officers need the insight of the people involved in the crash to effectively investigate. People who withhold details may struggle to prove that the other driver was to blame.
Treating injuries at home
People with mild to moderate collision injuries might assume that they can manage their symptoms at home. People with whiplash, for example, may try to use hot showers and over-the-counter analgesics to manage their symptoms. Failing to see a doctor might mean that people overlook serious injuries. They may also have a harder time connecting their symptoms, medical expenses and lost wages to the collision.
Accepting a first insurance settlement offer
Insurance professionals often make a settlement offer shortly after one party initiates a claim. They offer a relatively low amount. Even if the driver at fault only carries the minimum insurance required by law, there may still be room to negotiate for a reasonable amount of compensation. People have to consider their current expenses and also future losses related to property damage and injuries. The first settlement offer is rarely the best and highest offer available.
Managing everything alone
A surprising number of people think that they can outsmart insurance professionals, make sense of complex paperwork and even initiate a lawsuit on their own. The reality is that there are many complexities that impact compensation claims after car crashes. People hire lawyers to make sense of insurance paperwork and negotiate with adjusters. Attorneys can also help people explore who might be liable and what forms of legal recourse are available.
Individuals who learn from the mistakes that others make after motor vehicle collisions can more effectively handle the aftermath of a wreck. People usually need support understanding their rights and optimizing the financial relief they receive after a crash, and that’s okay.