Avoiding mistakes is important within any kind of legal setting or situation, and filing a car accident injury claim is no exception. There are a few different kinds of errors that can crop up during this process, and being aware of them is important for helping steer clear of them.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer the best auto accident injury lawyer services available in Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby parts of Utah. Our car accident attorneys will walk you through this entire process, helping you take the right steps and avoid mistakes to file a claim and obtain just compensation if another party was responsible for your injuries. Here are some of the most common such mistakes, plus how a car accident attorney will help you steer clear of them.
One of a few mistakes that traces back to the actual accident scene itself is not phoning the police right away. Even if damages are minor, it's still important to do so – many insurance companies will require a police report in order to process your claim.
This is also important for the simple fact that it's in your best interest to have an official record of the accident. If there are any disputes about what happened or who was at fault, a police report can be crucial evidence to support your claim.
And of course, calling the police is also important for safety reasons. They can assist with traffic control, ensuring that all parties involved are safe while waiting for assistance.
Beyond just calling police, it's also vital to document the scene of the accident as best you can. This includes taking pictures or videos of property damage and any injuries sustained by yourself or others.
In addition to documenting physical evidence, be sure to write down details about what happened leading up to and during the accident. Memories can fade quickly, so having a written record of events will help when filing your claim.
Another common mistake made after an accident is admitting fault at the scene, even if it seems like the honorable thing to do. However, doing so can greatly harm your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.
Remember, determining fault is not always cut and dry – there may be factors at play that you are not aware of or did not witness. It's best to leave this determination up to the professionals, such as insurance companies or a court of law.
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it's still important to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not present themselves immediately, and waiting too long to get checked out can harm your claim.
In addition, having documentation from a medical professional about any injuries sustained will help support your case for compensation. So, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident.
Perhaps the biggest mistake you can make when filing a car accident injury claim is not consulting with a car accident attorney. Even if you believe you have a strong case, navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be tricky and overwhelming.
At William Rawlings & Associates, we have years of experience in handling car accident injury claims. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Another common mistake lawyers often see is individuals waiting too long to file a claim. Statutes of limitations vary from state to state, but it's important to be aware of the time limits for filing a claim in your state.
If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. It's always best to consult with a car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident, so they can ensure that all necessary paperwork and filings are done in a timely manner.
One of the most preventable mistakes when filing a car accident injury claim is providing inaccurate or incomplete information. This can lead to lengthy delays in processing your claim and may even result in a denial of compensation.
To avoid this, make sure to double-check all information and provide any supporting documents or evidence as requested. Your car accident attorney can also help review your claim for accuracy before it is submitted.
Some insurance companies may offer a quick settlement immediately after an accident. While this may seem like a convenient solution, it's important to remember that these initial offers are often much lower than what you may be entitled to.
Before accepting any settlement, consult with a car accident attorney who can evaluate the full extent of your injuries and calculate the appropriate amount of compensation for your case.
By avoiding these common mistakes and enlisting the help of a trusted car accident attorney, you can navigate the process of filing a car accident injury claim with confidence and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. Don't hesitate to reach out to William Rawlings & Associates for expert legal guidance and support during this challenging time - we're here to help with all your auto accident injury lawyer needs around SLC, Provo, Draper and nearby parts of Utah!