Top 4 Mistakes People Make after Car Accidents – Insights from an Omaha Personal-Injury Lawyer
In less than a second, an unexpected car accident can cause severe property damage and life-threatening injuries. In the wake of the shock and trauma, it can seem impossible to remain calm. However, your actions in the aftermath of a collision may affect your ability to file a successful injury claim.
If you are in a wreck, be sure to avoid these four mistakes:
- Not calling the police;
- Not talking to witnesses;
- Making statements without the guidance of a personal-injury lawyer;
- And signing a general release without the approval of an accident attorney.
Your top priority after a collision is to seek medical attention. Then, call a personal-injury lawyer as soon as possible.
If you were injured by another driver’s negligence in Nebraska, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An accident attorney in Omaha will guide you through the claims process and help you avoid mistakes.
Call 1-800-471-4100 today to schedule a free consultation. You can also learn more about injury claims by visiting http://car-accident.usattorneys.com/nebraska/.
Until then, read on to learn four mistakes to avoid after a collision:
- Not Calling the Police
As the Department of Motor Vehicles explains, you should call the police immediately after the crash. An officer will create an accident report, which will contain important details such as the date, time, cause of the collision, and identities of the people involved. Your personal-injury lawyer may be able to use this report as evidence to prove liability and negligence.
- Not Talking to Witness
In addition to the police report, your accident attorney may use witness testimonies to support your claim. Bystanders often see important details that people involved in collisions overlook. For example, they may have seen the at-fault driver run a red light or stop sign. Be sure to gather contact details from witnesses including their names, phone numbers and email addresses.
- Making Statements without the Guidance of a Personal-Injury Lawyer
Insurance companies are businesses, so it is in their best interests to pay claimants as little as possible. Insurance adjusters often ask leading questions that motivate claimants to admit partial or complete fault.
Your phone calls with insurance adjusters are probably recorded, and the company may use your statements to undervalue or deny your claim. It is best to let your accident attorney handle correspondence with the insurance agency.
- Signing a General Release without the Approval of an Accident Attorney
If you sign a general release, then you will not be able to pursue further compensation. Insurance companies sometimes offer low settlements to resolve claims quickly, but if the payout does not cover your ongoing medical expenses, then you may fall into overwhelming debt. You should never sign any documents after an accident without the approval of your injury attorney.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. Our attorneys have litigated more than 100 jury trials, and we will give your case the individual attention that it deserves. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling 1-800-471-4100.
