The steps you take after an auto accident can help you get fair compensation for your injuries and property damage. For example, the insurance company does not necessarily have your best interests in mind when investigating the collision and offering a settlement.
Avoid these common mistakes after involvement in a serious auto accident.
Not seeking medical care
Not every injury shows immediate signs. Often, people mistake symptoms like confusion, stiffness and soreness for the natural course of things after an accident. In fact, feeling disoriented can indicate traumatic brain injury while pain can signify soft tissue damage that has lasting effects. See a doctor whenever you experience an auto accident, even if you do not seem seriously injured.
Delaying action
If you take too long to file a claim after an auto accident, you could lose your right to sue for damages. In Pennsylvania, you only have two years to bring a lawsuit for personal injury, including auto accident injuries.
Giving the insurance adjuster too much information
Never admit fault to the insurance adjuster who investigates the accident. Even when an investigator from the insurance company seems friendly, he or she wants to find information that can limit the amount the company must pay on your claim. While you do have to provide your own insurance company details about the accident, you do not owe this courtesy to the other party’s insurance company. In fact, you can even have an attorney deal with them on your behalf.
Pennsylvania allows auto accident compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other costs when you have less than 50% fault for the accident.
