Despite car accidents being an everyday occurrence, many people don’t know how to properly react after getting injured in a collision. In turn, they end up inadvertently jeopardizing their chances of recovering any damages. If you are involved in a crash, understanding how to handle the situation will have a significant impact on your ability to be fairly compensated for your losses. Here are some of the biggest mistakes personal injury attorneys caution against making if you want to achieve a favorable outcome with your claim.

5 Common Errors to Avoid When You’ve Been in a Car Accident

1. Not Seeking Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine and don’t see any visible injuries, one of the first steps to take after a car accident is getting examined by a doctor. Shock and adrenaline can mask potential symptoms, so you may not actually realize you’re hurt. Getting a proper diagnosis is not only vital for your recovery, but it can also serve as evidence in your case.

2. Neglecting to Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able to, it’s best to start documenting the scene of the accident right away. Take photos of the area where it happened, the damages to both vehicles, and your injuries. Make sure you also get written testimonies from any witnesses that saw the crash take place. All of this will help support your claim of the other motorist’s negligence.

3. Admitting Fault

Although apologizing may seem like the natural or polite thing to do after an accident, it could be misconstrued as an admission of fault and used against you during negotiations or litigation. Be extra cautious what you say to the other party, and even if you believe you were partially to blame, let the investigation decide who was responsible.

4. Providing the At-Fault Insurance Company With Too Much Information

It’s likely the at-fault driver’s insurance company will contact you for a recorded statement regarding what occurred. It’s in your best interest not to consent and to only give them the basic details of your auto insurance policy. Keep in mind it’s their priority to pay out as little as possible, so they will be looking to use anything you say to dispute liability.

5. Failing to Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Hiring a personal injury attorney will increase your odds of receiving maximum compensation. They will help accurately evaluate how much your injuries are worth and handle all communications with the other party’s insurance company. They will also assist in collecting evidence to strengthen your case and prepare a compelling argument on your behalf should you need to go to court.

If you’ve been injured in a traffic collision through no fault of your own, preserve your right to recover the full value of your claim by avoiding these errors and seeking counsel from a skilled personal injury attorney. For those in Pulaski County, KY, Mark D. Knight Attorney at Law offers more than 30 years of experience handling auto accident cases. He has helped numerous clients successfully prove liability and get the compensation they deserve. Call (606) 679-7411 to schedule a case review, and visit his website for more information on his legal services.