A person who is injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligent behavior should have a right to compensation for their injuries. However, all too often, a victim will make a simple mistake that brings a fair settlement into jeopardy. Keep reading to find out some of the biggest mistakes Californians make after accidents, then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for legal help.
Failing to Get Medical Care
One of the most common – and biggest – mistakes an accident victim often makes is to fail to get medical care immediately after a car accident. They might not think their injuries are that bad, or they might not have symptoms right away. Either way, if the victim later realizes that they have actually suffered a serious injury, the insurance adjuster can more easily argue that it was not a “real” injury or was not as serious as they claim.
Medical records are some of the most important evidence in your personal injury case. If you do not have medical records, or they do not start until days or weeks after your accident, then your case will be weaker.
Giving a Recorded Statement without Talking to an Attorney
It is likely that the insurance adjuster is going to contact you after the accident and request a recorded statement. They are well within their rights to request this – and you are well within your rights to decline. They might tell you that it is just a formality or that it will give you a chance to tell your side of what happened. Know that this recording is entirely for the benefit of the insurance company – not you.
If you do give a recorded statement, the insurance company will get a transcript of it. They can try to take your words out of context or find minor differences in what you have said elsewhere to try and prove that you are not honest. Do not give a recorded statement unless your attorney advises you to do so.
Accepting a Low Settlement Offer
The average person injured in a car accident will not know how much money they should get for their accident. The claims adjuster might make a valid case that their offer is fair even when it is not. For example, they might show that the offer would cover the full cost of medical bills along with property damage. That seems fair, does it not?
It is likely not fair. Why? Because if your injuries were significant, you would have future medical costs. There are also likely other damages you should be compensated for, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and others. To assure a fair settlement, work with an attorney. You can contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
