A car accident is often a traumatic incident. People involved in a car accident might panic and make mistakes that can damage their case and land them in trouble with the authorities. Hence, it is important to keep calm when involved in a car accident and know what steps to take.
At Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers, our car accident lawyer in Boston presents you with some common mistakes that can greatly impact your car accident lawsuit and insurance claim.
Let us take a look at what those are.
Leaving the Scene
Never leave the accident scene, even if it seems minor. Massachusetts law requires drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, property damage, or death to stay at the accident scene and exchange information with other parties involved. Leaving the scene of the accident is a criminal offense that can put you in jail for anywhere between two weeks to two years.
Not Calling the Police
Always call the police to report the accident, no matter how minor it may appear. A police report is essential for insurance claims and can help establish liability later.
Admitting Fault
Do not admit fault or apologize at the accident scene. Even a simple apology can be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt, which might harm your case in a future legal claim.
Neglecting Medical Treatment
Even if you think you have not been injured or only have minor injuries, getting a medical checkup immediately after the accident is important. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and getting checked by a medical professional ensures you haven’t sustained any hidden injuries and creates an official record of the injuries.
Failing to Gather Information
It is important to obtain essential information from all parties involved, including names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance information, and witness contact information. Also, take photographs of the accident scene, property or vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. However, avoid giving a detailed statement. Also, only accept a settlement after consulting a car accident lawyer first. While insurance companies are there to help, their primary objective is to minimize their payouts. It is important to be wary when dealing with insurance adjusters and only provide them with recorded statements with legal counsel.
Settling Too Early
Avoid settling with the insurance company before you have full knowledge of your injuries and damages. Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen later. Plus, any initial settlement by the insurance company is bound to be unfairly low.
Delaying Legal Representation
Contact a car accident lawyer in Boston as soon as possible after the accident. An experienced car accident attorney will walk you through the claims process, protect your rights, and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Ignoring Boston’s Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is a limited timeframe within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitation for personal liability is three years. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline.
Discussing the Accident on Social Media
It can be very tempting, but avoid discussing the accident or your injuries on social media. Insurance companies may use your posts against you to undermine your claims.
Get Help From Our Car Accident Lawyer in Boston
By being aware of these common mistakes and following the advice of car accident lawyers, you can ensure your interests and rights remain protected, and you maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation after a car accident in Boston, MA. Consulting with a reputable and qualified car accident lawyer in Boston can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the claims process.
If you are involved in a car accident and do not know your rights and responsibilities, the personal injury attorney at Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers can help you understand what to do in the aftermath of a car accident and help fight for your rights. For an initial consultation, reach out to us.
