Being injured in a truck accident in Hollywood, Miami, or any Florida community can be terrifying enough. But when you make mistakes after your accident, your situation can get even scarier. When you make mistakes in a traffic accident situation, you may end up hurting your case and this means you may end up with less compensation than you deserve, possibly not leaving you with enough for medical care and daily expenses.
Don’t let this happen to you. Here are the top mistakes attorneys see people make after a roadway accident:
1) Signing anything or speaking to anyone without legal advice.
Insurance companies and legal representatives for trucking companies and other liable parties act fast. You may be visited at home or even in the hospital by someone who wants to talk to you about your accident. Even if this person is very compassionate, they are not representing your interests. As the injured party, you deserve to have someone looking out for you. That’s why you’ll want to have a legal professional guide you before you talk to anyone and before you sign any documents.
2) Not going to a doctor.
Symptoms can be tricky. They can take some time to develop, and by not getting checked out immediately after your accident can mean you don’t start getting treatment right away, even if you need it. Not getting medical attention can also send the message that you are not injured – and this may not be the case. Always get a full medical evaluation to check for potential injuries so treatment can start as soon as possible.
3) Not being cautious about what you say.
Even simple statements you make to an insurance company or on social media can be misconstrued. Maybe you post a picture of yourself relaxing on a day when you feel a little better. Representatives for the other side may claim it’s an indication you’re not very injured. Maybe you automatically say “fine” when an insurance company representative asks you how you are. Some companies may try to claim you were claiming you were uninjured. Always use caution when making statements after your accident, no matter how innocent your words seem.
4) Accepting the insurance company’s first offer.
The first offer the insurance company makes may be made before you even have a full, accurate diagnosis of your injuries. Always carefully consider any offers and realize you have the right to negotiate so you have enough to pay for all your injury-related bills and damages.
5) Not calling an attorney first.
The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner your attorney can start advising you and protecting your claim. An attorney can take steps right away to help you secure compensation to pay for the damages and losses you have suffered.
If you have been injured in a truck accident and would like a team of attorneys and legal professionals helping you avoid some of the more common mistakes that could hurt your case, contact Flaxman Law Group. Flaxman Law Group is a law firm of compassionate and professional attorneys and we offer legal advice and representation to those who have been injured. Contact us today for a free accident consultation.