How to Avoid Common Pitfalls in Mississippi Car Accident Claims
When you’re injured because of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation—but a lot depends on what you do after your accident. There are many mistakes you’ll see among personal injury victims, and unfortunately, some of these mistakes can put your claim in danger.
By following the advice given below and discussing your Biloxi personal injury claim with the team at Gardner Law Group, you can fight for full and fair compensation. Call us at 228-436-6555 to set up a consultation now.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
One of the most common pitfalls we see is failing to get checked out by a doctor. It’s easy to write off post-accident aches and pains, but those issues could point to serious injuries. The sooner you talk to a doctor after an accident, the easier it is for them to link the accident to your injuries. Furthermore, starting treatment right away may give you a better prognosis.
Gather Time-Sensitive Evidence
After an accident, you only have a short period of time to collect certain types of evidence. Too often, we see people who did not get any pictures or video footage of the crash scene. This can hurt your claim, but in some situations, there are traffic cameras and surveillance cameras that can provide insight into the crash scene. Still, having proof of where the vehicles landed after a crash, how badly they were damaged, and where the crash occurred can help you fight for fair compensation.
Do Not Make a Recorded Statement
Sometimes, we meet with clients after they have already been contacted by the other party’s insurance company. When we find out that they have given a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company, we know we have some damage control to do. Remember that the other party’s insurance company is not on your side. They are trying to limit their financial losses and protect themselves from lawsuits. When they get your recorded statement, they can pick it apart for inconsistencies, look at statements that they can use to prove your role in the crash and find ways to pin your injuries on other factors. You should have legal representation before you ever talk to the other party’s insurance provider.
Hold Off on Accepting a Settlement Offer
Some people think it’s excellent news when the other insurance company comes to them with a settlement offer right away—and they accept it. They think it’s proof that the insurance company is negotiating in good faith and realizes their client’s role in the crash. The fact is, though, that insurance companies know what they’re doing.
Waiting on a settlement can only hurt them. When you accept a settlement, you also waive your right to sue them for your current injuries or any other injuries related to the crash in question. If they offer a small settlement before you find out the severity of your injuries, they save themselves a ton of money if you later find out that your injuries are more extensive than previously thought. When you accept a settlement, it should cover all of your accident-related expenses. Talk to an attorney to make sure whatever offer you accept is fair.
Talk to an Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes people make is handling their car accident claim on their own. Of course, you can negotiate without an attorney’s help but know that the insurance company will always have the edge over you. They know what it takes to chip away at the value of your claim and get you to accept less. When you work with a Biloxi car accident attorney, you can find out what your accident claim is truly worth. Your attorney will build a solid case on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance company for you, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Start Your Claim Today with Gardner Law Group
Avoid case-wrecking mistakes when you work with the team at Gardner Law Group. We’re ready to fight for the compensation you’re owed while you focus on recovering. Give us a call at 228-436-6555 or send us a message online to get started now.
