Did you know that 1.3 million people die yearly from road traffic crashes?
Have you suffered an injury in a car accident? Are you worried that others may not pay for the damage?
Few people realize how difficult it can be to file an auto accident claim. Even insurance agents have trouble when dealing with claims. Insurance companies know how to deny customers and keep them from getting reimbursed.
If you’re experiencing problems with your claim, root out the cause of the problem. Here are the most common errors with auto accident claims.
- Failing to Gather Evidence
Remembering to collect all the evidence to build a strong suit is essential. Substantial evidence may include photos of the accident scene, police or incident reports, medical records, or a repair estimate for damages. Failing to gather evidence can result in long delays in resolving or denying the claim.
Witnesses to the accident can provide vital testimony to help the case. It is also essential to note any conversations with an insurance adjuster, law enforcement, or any other third party involved.
Having all the evidence organized and readily available will ensure that the claim is handled promptly and according to the actual value of the claim. The consequences of failing to gather evidence may be severe and ultimately result in a lost lawsuit.
- Settling Too Quickly
Often it’s easy to want to get out of the long and time-consuming legal process and get the settlement money. However, settling too soon can cost you in the long run.
You might be entitled to much more money than you initially agreed to receive. Or the settlement may not cover all the damages, such as medical bills, work-related expenses, or pain and suffering. Insurance companies usually rush to settle, but you must know your rights and not sign anything until you’ve legally consulted with an experienced lawyer.
Settling too quickly can cost you significantly more in the future, so it’s essential to slow down and ensure you get a fair settlement.
- Not Calling the Police
Common errors with auto accident claims often include not calling the police. Calling the police and reporting the accident can be a helpful step in the claims process. Collecting evidence, such as photos, videos, and statements from any witnesses, is essential when a car accident occurs.
It is beneficial because it helps to produce auto accident claim documents that can be used to evaluate the accident details. Not calling the police cuts out an essential layer of evidence that can be used to build your claim. Failing to contact the authorities further weakens your chances of being compensated fairly for your damages and losses.
Furthermore, if the other party in the accident chooses to claim you, calling the police will help ensure your side of the story is heard. Not calling the police increases the likelihood of disputes and delays in the claims process. For these reasons, you must contact the police and report the accident if you are involved in a car accident, no matter how minor.
- Admitting Guilt
It is essential to know what mistakes to avoid. One error to watch out for is admitting Guilt. While it may seem like an honest mistake, it can be seen as an attempt to settle out of court and can be used against you by the insurer.
Additionally, some claimants do not seek medical treatment promptly after the accident. This can lead to a denial of the claim, as the insurer might argue that any injuries weren’t caused by the incident and will not cover the costs.
Lastly, some claimants attempt to exaggerate the facts and level of damages, which the insurance company can easily detect. It is essential, to be honest in all aspects of the claim process to ensure that it is not negatively affected.
- Not Asking Questions
It is essential to take the initiative and understand the specific details of your policy and the policies of the other drivers involved in the accident. Knowing the answers to these questions may be the difference between an accepted and rejected claim or a difference in the amount of compensation received.
If you are unsure, you should ask questions of your insurance agent or representatives of the other drivers. Knowing the relevant answers may be necessary to your case, particularly if the other driver does not have up-to-date or adequate coverage.
Without asking questions, you may not get the maximum compensation owed. Therefore, always take the initiative and ask questions when filing an auto accident claim.
- Skipping the Doctor
Without a medical evaluation, it is impossible to accurately identify the full extent of any physical, mental, and emotional injuries sustained in the accident. Moreover, a professional medical evaluation may provide detailed documentation supporting your claim should the matter reach a courtroom.
In worst-case scenarios, failure to receive a medical evaluation can amount to fraud and have legal repercussions. Such issues can be avoided entirely by scheduling a visit to the doctor to ensure their condition is accurately documented. Consult an auto accident attorney immediately and follow any mandated medical timeline.
- Not Defending a Traffic Ticket
Without a proper defense, the insurance companies might blame the driver for the accident and withhold payment for the damages. Drivers must hire a lawyer to represent their best interests in court and protect their right to seek compensation.
Additionally, drivers have to demonstrate that the accident was not their fault, requiring evidence to be compiled before attending court. If drivers fail to contest a traffic ticket, the insurance companies may deny the claim, and the drivers may not receive payment.
To avoid this outcome, drivers must take all necessary measures to defend their traffic tickets and ensure that the insurance companies provide the coverage they deserve. If you experience an auto accident injury, get an accident attorney’s help.
Avoid These Errors With Auto Accident Claims
No one wants to make an auto accident claim, but if you do, ensure you do it correctly to avoid errors with auto accident claims. Understanding the process, keeping organized records, and providing appropriate documentation is essential. Knowledge is power – get the information you need and take action today.
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