In the immediate few minutes after getting into a car accident, odds are you aren’t thinking very clearly, if only because of the shock of what has just happened. If you have recently been in a car accident, though, there are some things you should do within the first few days afterward to make sure you are on the right path to get the compensation you deserve. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1
Not hiring an attorney. You might think that the accident wasn’t serious enough to warrant getting legal help, but it’s always a good idea to discuss your accident with an attorney for an expert opinion, which can help you to avoid future issues. An experienced attorney can make sure that you are taking the right steps in the weeks after the accident.
Mistake #2
Not getting treatment. After a car accident, seeing a doctor will not only help you to feel better, but it also means that your injuries and pain are documented for the insurance companies and for any legal action you decide to take.
Mistake #3
Not having all of your injuries documented. You should tell your doctor about every bump and bruise so that he or she will make a note of it. This is important because often, an injury that seems minor at first may get worse over time.
Mistake #4
Not letting your doctor know about any previous injuries – you want to make sure that the insurance company has no reason to accuse you of dishonesty or fraud.
Mistake #5
Waiting too long to pursue your case. You want to make sure you file your lawsuit before the statute of limitations runs out. In Maryland, the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit is 3 years, with some exceptions.
The period after an accident can be chaotic and confusing. Once you have gotten medical help, one of your next steps should be to find an attorney who can help you to navigate through all that has to be done and to help you make sure it’s done right. Call Patrick D. Troxler, Esq., at 301-709-7195, for a free initial consultation today.