5 Behaviors to Avoid Following an Auto Accident
During an accident, most people are often nervous and confused. Amid the confusion, we may start wondering: is there anyone wounded? Whose fault was it? Will the insurance cover the accident? While all these are important questions, ensure you stay level headed. Do not act in haste; whatever you do afterward will have later implications.
If you find yourself in an accident, we recommend taking a deep breath, calm down, and approach the situation with a clear head. Keep the below list of things never to do after an accident in your mind:
1. Never Overlooking Any Injuries
After an accident, adrenaline can mask minor and major injuries in your body. You may feel fine, but that does not mean you are okay. Any untreated injuries can get worse over time. Telling emergency responders that you don’t need any medical attention may prevent you from getting personal injury compensation from the party at fault. Immediate medical examinations are required to relate your injuries to the accident. We recommend you pay attention to any symptoms that linger after a car accident and get them checked, even though they are minor.
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2. Do Not Speak to An Insurance Claim Agent
An insurance agent will likely contact you to get a statement about the accident. It’s important to note that you don’t need to give them a statement. Contact an experienced Okemos criminal defense attorney, especially if the insurance agent is from the other side. Insurance adjusters are always looking out for their insurance companies’ interest, anything you say to them will be used later against you in the court.
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3. Don’t Sign A Release
The insurance company will try to get you to sign a “quit-hit” release a few days after the accident. They may offer you a deal to pay you a small amount of money like 600 dollars ad any medical bills they think are reasonable. Please don’t take the deal, and you may late regret it as your injuries may be worse than you think and may cost you more money. Ensure you wait for a couple of weeks to see the extent of your injuries and allow your body to start healing before signing any release forms.
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4. Do Not Admit Fault
Accepting that you are at fault during the accident scene or in a recorded report will put your lawyer and your insurance company in a disadvantaged position. While you may try to apologize to the other party in the heat of the moment, always keep in mind that it’s not your job to assign fault.
5. Do Not Flee the Accident Scene
No matter how harmless the accident looks, the law requires you to check on the other party, contact the police, and exchange contact information. If any injuries or damages have occurred, it is wrong to leave the scene of the accident. Fleeing the scene may be punishable by jail time or hefty fines.
White Law, PLLC Is Here to Help You Recover
If you’ve been involved in an accident, it is important that you understand your legal options when it comes to pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Our team of compassionate Okemos personal injury attorneys at White Law, PLLC are here to help you return to your best life possible. For more information on how our team can help, call (517) 316-1195 today.
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