When you are involved in an auto accident, a simple mistake you make can cause you a much bigger headache later on when you are seeking a settlement. One such mistake is to not mention your injury, even if you think it is minor. Doing this will lead to you having a more difficult time arguing that you were injured by the accident without the help of an auto accident attorney.
What Should Happen at the Scene of the Accident
You will want eyewitnesses to hear that you were injured after the accident. The investigating officer will also make note that you were injured and this can be used during your settlement negotiations. You will want to state the specific body part that is injured. For example, you may simply state "my back hurts."
Without making this statement, the insurance provider of the other driver might question the credibility of your statement and use this as an excuse to reduce your settlement.
When You Failed to State That You Were Injured
Even if you make this mistake, an attorney may be able to successfully negotiate a settlement. Some injuries do not show up until days after the accident. Your attorney will need to build a case for why your injuries are the type that occurs as a result of the type of accident you had.
Being able to prove that you were injured by the accident is important because an insurance provider will do everything they can to reduce your settlement. They might claim that one of your injuries was a preexisting condition and that you should not be compensated for treatments related to that injury.
Obtain a Traffic Collision Report
If you were involved in an accident, it's important to obtain a traffic collision report promptly. Both parties involved in an accident will be able to pick up the report from the police station or request that a copy be mailed.
Receive Treatment for Your Injuries
Simply reporting that you feel pain after an accident is not enough, and you will also need to provide medical evidence that you were injured. You will be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, as well as lost wages and future lost wages. Your medical bills can also be used to show the pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of your injuries. A skilled personal injury attorney will negotiate to make sure that you are fully compensated.
