Motor vehicle accidents can have a long lasting impact on a person’s life, yet many people do not know what to do after an accident happens. In fact, most people make crucial mistakes that can affect their case at a later time. It is important to understand the steps that you need to avoid when involved in a car accident. Here at Quattrochi, Torres, and Taormina, PA we caution you against making the following mistakes if you want to have the highest possible return in your claim.
1. Not calling the police after the accident. Not only is there a law requiring you to report the accident to the police, but it also benefits you to have a police report attached to your claim. In the event at you are not at fault, the officer’s confirmation through the issuance of a citation to the responsibility party effects the insurance company’s decision to accept liability.
2. Failing to obtain the other driver’s information Immediately following the accident,you should obtain the other driver’s name, number, address, license plate number, insurance company and vehicle identification number. Do not wait to obtain this information because the other driver can decide to leave the scene at any moment or give false information, leaving you with only your insurance company to recover from.
3. Not taking pictures of both vehicles and the scene It is not enough to take pictures of just your vehicle. Instead, it can be crucial to get pictures of the other vehicles involved, the light, skid marks, the intersection, stop signs, and any other tangible things that may be relevant to the accident. This can be very effective evidence that corroborates your story as to what happened.
4. Failing to seek medical attention Symptoms from a car accident often arise a few days after the accident. Don’t rely on your body at the moment of the accident when your adrenaline is rushing. Seek medical attention by a licensed physician as soon as possible. Failure to seek medical attention within 14 days of a motor vehicle accident constitutes a withdrawal of your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Medical Claim.
5. Admitting Fault At the scene of the accident,it’s important to limit your conversation to anyone other than the reporting officer, or your insurance company. Statements like “I’m sorry” and “my bad”can be used against you and hurt your case. Allow the reporting office to investigate and determine liability.
6. Not consulting an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your rights. Hiring the right personal injury attorney can increase your chances are receiving highest possible compensation for your claim. Attorneys here at Quattrochi, Torres, and Taormina, PA will help you accurately evaluate how much your injuries are worth. The claims process happens quickly, don’t get caught flat footed.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, our legal team here at Quattrochi, Torres, and Taormina, PA can assist you.Please contact us today so that we can put our experience to work and maximize the value of your claim.