Four Things you Should Not Do After a Car Accident

When you are involved in a car accident, it can be hard to think straight. In those moments during and after a collision, you are shaking, you are terrified, you are in physical pain, and you are not always completely aware of your surroundings or exactly how the collision occurred. It can be difficult to know how to proceed after a car accident. This is why it is crucial that you work with an experienced car accident lawyer to pursue your personal injury claim. You might be tempted to take certain steps or make certain statements that can actually harm your chance of recovering compensation – your lawyer can help you avoid these missteps.

Do Not Leave the Accident Scene without Evidence

The moments after an accident are critical for gathering the evidence you will need later to prove your claim’s validity. This evidence includes photographs of the accident, testimonies from witnesses, and the official police report for the accident. Take as many photographs as you can during these moments. Jot down contact information for the witnesses in the event you need to contact them again and do not leave the scene without a copy of the official police report and contact information for the attending officer.

Do Not Sign Anything

When you report the accident to your insurance provider, you may be asked to sign a statement about the accident. Do not sign this statement until you have spoken with an experienced attorney. The statement you are asked to sign may contain language stating that you were at fault or that you were not injured, which can make it impossible for you to recover compensation later.

Do Not Give a Statement to an Insurance Adjuster

Like the point discussed above, you might be asked to give a statement to the insurance adjuster who handles your claim. Do not make a statement until you have spoken to your attorney. In fact, do not interact with an insurance provider at all – allow your lawyer to negotiate with them on your behalf.

Do Not Procrastinate

This is the most important thing to avoid when you are involved in a car accident. Do not put off getting medical attention for your injury, do not put off seeking legal help, and most importantly, do not put off filing your personal injury claim. In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is four years from the date of the accident. This might sound like a long time, but do not allow yourself to be lulled into complacency. Get to work on your claim as soon as you can.

Work with a Winter Park Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a car accident, work with an experienced car accident attorney to give your claim the best possible chance of resulting in adequate compensation for your injury. To get started with a Winter Park lawyer who can help you, schedule your free consultation with a member of Hornsby Law today.