No matter where or how it happens, being involved in a traffic accident is a uniquely unsettling experience that can be hard on you physically, financially, and emotionally all at once. Things can get even more complicated once insurance companies and defense counsel get involved since both of them will do everything in their power to protect their own best interests and those of their client—even if that means interfering with your own.
With that in mind, it is vital to act proactively to protect your rights, ideally with guidance from a capable car crash attorney on your side. The legal professionals at our firm could help you maximize your chances of receiving fair financial recovery. Aside from failing to retain legal counsel, we have compiled the most common mistakes to avoid after a Merrillville car accident.
Leaving the Scene Too Early
Provided that they do not need emergency medical attention, the top priority for people involved in a traffic collision in Merrillville should be moving their vehicles out of the flow of traffic. They should also summon emergency assistance for anyone in need and exchange contact and insurance information with all other parties.
All these actions are also required under Indiana state law, and failure to perform them can be prosecuted as a criminal “hit and run” offense even if someone else was entirely at fault for causing the accident. Additionally, they are important to building a strong civil claim later on.
Not Calling 911 to Document Property Damage and Injuries
If a traffic collision results only in minor property damage and no injuries, it is not always strictly necessary to contact the police. However, if there are any injuries whatsoever or significant property damage in a Merrillville car crash, failing to call 911 immediately after that wreck is a particularly big mistake to avoid when involved in the incident.
Not Seeking Medical Attention Quickly
Along similar lines, many people involved in Merrillville car crashes make the mistake of assuming that they are uninjured when they do not feel any symptoms immediately after the wreck. Seeking diagnosis and treatment from a qualified medical professional quickly can be key to addressing more subtle injuries that may not produce obvious symptoms right away. Documentation of crash-related damages can also serve as crucial evidence in a civil claim later on.
Being Too Forthcoming with Insurance Adjusters
One last big mistake to avoid after a car wreck in Merrillville is assuming that insurance adjusters are working for people involved in car crashes rather than the insurance companies representing those people. While it is important to always be honest when speaking with insurance adjusters after a crash, it is also important to avoid speculating, providing more information than absolutely necessary, and admitting any fault for the incident while on the phone with them.
Filing Suit Without a Merrillville Attorney’s Help Is the Biggest Mistake to Avoid After a Car Accident
It is understandable to feel hesitant about adding a drawn-out legal battle to your plate while you are still dealing with serious injuries caused by a traumatic traffic collision. However, enforcing your right to financial recovery after a wreck someone else caused can be vital to preserving your financial security and overall quality of life for years to come.
A well-practiced attorney from The Law Offices of David W. Holub can be the steadfast ally you need to effectively avoid mistakes after a Merrillville car accident. Call today to schedule a consultation.