6 Common Mistakes to Avoid on a Car Accident Injury Claim
Car accidents can be incredibly traumatic, both physically and emotionally. Not only do you have to deal with the pain of your injuries, but also the financial burden that comes with a car accident injury claim. Unfortunately, many individuals make mistakes when making an injury claim after a car accident which can lead to significant delays or even denial of their claims.
To help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, it’s important to understand some of the most common mistakes people make when filing an injury claim after a car accident. Here are some common mistakes to avoid on a car accident injury claim so that you can get the maximum amount of compensation possible for your injuries.
1. Not Calculating All Losses
Many people only consider the cost of medical bills and car repairs when calculating their losses, but this is typically not enough. When filing an injury claim after a car accident, it’s important to also factor in lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other expenses associated with your accident and recovery.
Overlooking compensation for Attendant Care in Ann Arbor after a car accident can be detrimental to your case, so having an attorney who will help you calculate all of your losses is key. Additionally, you may be entitled to punitive damages if the other driver was especially negligent in causing your accident.
2. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
The statute of limitations for filing an injury claim after a car accident varies from state to state, so it’s important to file a claim as soon as possible. In Michigan, you have three years from the date of the accident to submit your injury claim. If you wait longer than that, your case will likely be dismissed.
Additionally, evidence can disappear or become less reliable over time, so it’s important to collect and submit evidence as soon as possible after an accident has occurred. A great time frame to consider would be within 30 days after a car accident.
3. Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Many individuals are hesitant to seek medical attention immediately following an accident due to fear of high costs or that they don’t think their injuries warrant it. However, getting the proper medical care is key for any injury claim, as medical records and bills will be important when filing your claim. Additionally, receiving treatment from a qualified doctor can help with the healing process and provide you with better results in the end.
4. Accepting a Low Settlement Offer
When making an injury claim after a car accident, many people worry about being taken advantage of by insurance companies that may offer them low settlement offers without considering the full extent of their damages.
It’s important to remember that an insurance company’s bottom line is making a profit, and they may try to get away with offering you less money than you deserve. If an insurance company makes a settlement offer, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you negotiate for fair compensation.
5. Signing Away Rights Without Proper Legal Counsel
It’s not uncommon for car accident injury victims to sign away rights without properly understanding all of the implications of doing so. It’s important to seek competent legal advice before signing any documents or accepting any offers from the other driver or their insurance company.
An attorney can make sure that your rights are being fully protected and that any agreements are in your best interests. Additionally, they can help you avoid signing away any future rights to compensation if your injuries worsen.
6. Not Retaining Legal Representation
Retaining an attorney who has experience dealing with car accident injury claims is one of the best ways to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. An attorney who has a history of success handling similar cases can provide invaluable advice and guidance as you navigate the legal process, as well as help negotiate a better settlement on your behalf. Additionally, having an experienced lawyer by your side significantly increases your chances of receiving the maximum amount of compensation possible.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you are getting the full amount of compensation available to you for your car accident injury claim. Partnering with an experienced attorney who is familiar with Michigan’s personal injury laws can give you the best chance for a successful outcome.
They can provide guidance and advice throughout the process, helping to make sure that all of your rights are fully protected and that you get fair compensation for your losses. With their expertise on your side, it’s more likely that you will be able to navigate through this difficult time successfully and receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.
