In Las Vegas, 18,233 collisions led to 11,432 injuries and 134 fatalities in 2023. Accepting lowball settlements, neglecting scene documentation, missing insurance notifications, and ignoring the two-year filing deadline can derail claims. Auto accident deaths fell 3.2% statewide in early 2024. Avoid these by preserving evidence and consulting counsel early. A 6.5% rise in hit‑and‑runs underscores why thorough documentation matters.
Auto accidents can be stressful and overwhelming. People often make errors in the immediate aftermath, which could impact their safety and any potential claims. Understanding these common missteps and how to avoid them can make a significant difference.
Not Checking for Injuries
The priority after an accident should be checking for injuries. People often overlook this crucial step, focusing instead on the damage to their vehicles. Ensuring everyone is safe should always come first. If injuries are apparent, calling emergency services is essential.
Failing to Call Authorities
A few skip the law requirement of calling the police, especially for minor accidents. Still, a police report can be an important record. It can be important for insurance claims purposes and provides an official event record. Always call the police or other authorities so that they can make a record of what happened.
Admitting Fault
In the aftermath of an accident, many people feel the urge to apologize or take the blame. But those are nice when they could turn this, you know, many years down the line, against them. Better to talk in facts of what happened, and leave out who you think is to blame.
Neglecting to Gather Information
Gather information from all parties involved. This encompasses names, phone numbers, insurance data, and license plate digits. It is also helpful to take pictures of the scene and any damage that occurred. If insurance companies are involved later, this information will be useful to them.
Skipping Medical Evaluation
It is always smart to get checked out, even if you feel like the injuries are minor. Not all injuries are visible, and a medical professional can detect damage that may not be clear at first. Documentation of medical examinations can further substantiate any assertion of injury.
Failing to Notify the Insurance Company
It’s also important to contact the insurance as soon as possible regarding the accident. These delays can make lodging a claim messy and might also compromise your coverage. Granting them all of the info that you managed to collect makes for a better resolution.
Acceptance of an Early Settlement Offer
Insurance companies may attempt to settle your claim quickly to settle your claim as quickly as possible. Injuries may be worse than anticipated, or damages may be more severe than originally expected, so these initial offers may not compensate the injured party for their full damages. A legal advisor can help mediate a fair settlement.
Overlooking Legal Advice
One thing that can help you, especially after an accident, is legal advice. But many, fearing the cost of a consultation, end up avoiding engaging with the process entirely when a consultation can actually help clarify your rights and your options. A legal professional can help these individuals see through certain layers of complexity and help ensure that the most favorable outcome occurs.
Posting on Social Media
We live in the digital age, so we will inevitably share experiences over the internet. But writing about an accident can have the opposite effect. Claimants who post anything on social media would be easy targets for insurance adjusters or opposing parties who would use their posts to undermine their case. If you have experienced an accident, sharing the details of the accident online can be tempting. However, it is best to avoid doing so until everything is settled.
Ignoring Follow-ups
Some people may never follow up with an insurance or medical provider in the days and weeks after the initial chaos. Regular communication guarantees that claims move along and that needed treatments are provided. Avoiding future problems is about keeping all appointments and being informed.
Conclusion
These are just some key tips to prepare you that can lower some of the stress and prevent mistakes from happening after your car accident. Avoiding these mistakes can help safeguard your well-being and protect your financial interests. Approach things carefully in the aftermath of an accident and ask for legal help where needed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney or qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific situation. Laws and procedures may vary by jurisdiction.
