Five Common Mistakes To Avoid After A Sarasota Auto Accident

Being in an auto accident can be very disorienting. You’re driving along and suddenly your entire life is upended. Between the injuries, the stress, and the shock, it’s hard to process. However, what happens immediately after an accident can have serious consequences. Small mistakes can cost big. It may be challenging, but if you take the right steps, you can protect yourself from even more hardship down the line. Here are 5 mistakes that you should always avoid making after your Sarasota accident.

Not Contacting The Police

Calling the police makes a lot of people nervous. Maybe we’re afraid of escalating the situation, maybe we don’t think an accident is worth taking them away from their work. Whatever the reason, always call the police. Calling the police after an accident is very important. The police will complete an accident report that will contain all the details of the accident. This document will be very important when it comes to filing a claim, providing evidence, and proving fault. Always contact the police after an accident.

Skipping The Doctor

After any auto accident, it is critical you see a physician. Even if you don’t think you are injured, there could be hidden injuries that may not be showing symptoms yet. Seeing a doctor right away will connect those injuries to your accident. That will make fighting for a settlement easier as it is considered objective evidence for the courts. More importantly, though, early diagnosis of injuries is the key to recovering from them. Early diagnosis gives you more and more effective treatment options. Even if you don’t feel injured, see your doctor after an auto accident!

Saying “I’m Sorry” Or Admitting Fault Of Any Kind

There’s a tendency in all of us to apologize for things that aren’t our fault. However, to the insurance companies and the courts, “I’m sorry” is an act of admission of fault. Their reasoning is that if you didn’t cause the accident, why would you be sorry? Be especially careful when you talk to the insurance companies after the accident. Never admit to anything. It will be used against you.

Trusting The Insurance Companies

This brings us to our next point. Insurance companies have one goal and one goal only: Turn a profit. Paying auto accident injury settlement claims cuts into that profit. Even if you’ve been going to the same insurance agent for 20 years, you will quickly see that they are not your friend. When you speak with them just stick to the hard facts about what happened like:

● Where was the accident
● Who was involved
● What are the events that happened

Further, answer their questions as briefly as possible and do not provide extra information. Anything beyond that will be used against you when you file a claim.

Not Speaking To An Attorney

Many people are hesitant to speak to an attorney after an accident. However, there’s a reason all attorneys offer free case reviews. Attorneys are always here to help you understand your rights and your options, whether you end up hiring them or not. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand if you need an attorney. Just make sure to contact an attorney that specializes in auto accidents. If you do decide to work with an attorney, know that they will take care of everything. They’ll handle all communications with the insurance company, all the documentation, and fight for your rights to a fair settlement.

The team at All Injuries Law Firm can help. With over three decades of experience fighting for Sarasota residents, we have the experience and knowledge to fight for you. Even if you’ve made any of these mistakes. Give us a call today or chat with us right on our website. We’ll review all your legal options and work to protect your rights.