Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Mississippi Car Crash Claim

Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain after a Mississippi car accident is completely normal. You’re suddenly faced with injuries, vehicle damage, and dealing with insurance claims. To make things even more challenging, there are common mistakes that people often make after an accident, which can seriously harm their chances of getting fair compensation.

With our team, you can avoid these common mistakes and preserve the integrity of your claim. Give us a call at 228-762-6555 to set up a time to talk now.

Not Seeking Medical Care

You may think you’re okay after a car accident, but it’s still crucial to see a doctor right away. Some injuries might not be obvious immediately, but can become serious very quickly—consider internal bleeding, for example. A medical check-up will help identify any hidden injuries and document your condition. This medical documentation is essential for your claim because it shows that your injuries were caused by the accident. Waiting too long to get checked can make it harder to prove that your injuries are related to the crash.

Talking to the Other Party’s Insurance Company

Dealing with the other party’s insurance company definitely puts you at a disadvantage. The insurance adjuster may be casual and friendly with you, but their job is to save the company money—and denying you fair compensation is one of the easiest ways to do that. Being friendly is part of getting you to talk freely about the accident and unintentionally say something they can use against you.

It’s not uncommon for them to try to get you to admit that the accident was your fault or downplay how serious your injuries are. Be very careful about what you say. You don’t have to give them a recorded statement, and it’s often better if you don’t speak with them at all without a lawyer.

Not Taking Enough Pictures

Taking photos after a car accident is one of the most important parts of gathering evidence for your claim. Sadly, many people either completely forget to take pictures or fail to capture important details. Take pictures of all the vehicles involved from multiple angles and distances. Make sure to get shots of any visible injuries you or your passengers may have. Also, don’t forget to document the entire accident scene, including skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs.

If you see any landmarks, buildings, or street signs near the accident, include them in your photos to give more context to those unfamiliar with the area or the layout. You should also photograph any debris or objects that may have played a role in the crash.

Going Back to Work Too Quickly

Going back to work too soon after a car accident can really hurt your chances of getting fair compensation. Although you may feel pressure to return to your job for financial reasons, doing so without your doctor’s approval can give the wrong impression. It might make it seem like your injuries aren’t serious, which could lead to less money for your accident-related expenses. Insurance companies love to argue that you’re not as hurt as you claim to be.

It’s important to listen to your doctor’s advice about how much rest and recovery time you need. While we know you have bills to pay, you cannot sacrifice your health. Ignoring your doctor’s recommendations can slow your recovery and could also damage your claim. If your doctor suggests taking time off work, make sure you get this in writing. This documentation can be useful in proving that your injuries are significant and that you need time to heal.

Not Talking to an Attorney

You may think you can handle everything on your own, especially if you’re afraid of the cost of hiring an attorney, but this can be a risky move. Car accident claims can be very complex, and the average person may not know how to navigate insurance company negotiations. Consulting an attorney gives you peace of mind and lets you benefit from their expertise. Remember, too, that on the other side of your claim in an insurance adjuster with a lot of experience in paying out as little as possible. An attorney levels the playing field.

Let’s Talk About Your Case—Call Gardner Law Group

When you’re ready to start pursuing full and fair compensation, the team at Gardner Law Group is here to support you. Give us a call at 228-762-6555 or get in touch online to set up a consultation.