Top 11 Mistakes to Avoid After a NJ Car Accident
The time following an auto accident can be hectic and overwhelming. Car accident victims often have a lot going through their minds, which can make it easy to make mistakes.
11 Mistakes to Avoid After an Auto Accident
We have compiled a list of the top mistakes to avoid after an auto accident:
1. Declining Medical Treatment
Medical treatment is almost always a good idea following an auto accident. With adrenaline going through your body, it’s easy to miss symptoms that may be serious. Also, if injuries do come up later, the insurance company may question their severity since you didn’t receive immediate medical care.
2. Talking to the Insurance Company Before Consulting With a Lawyer
It may seem like an innocent attempt to find out if you’re okay, but anything that you say to an insurance company can be used against you later. While your policy may require that you inform the insurance company of the accident, you should stick to giving details. Avoid providing a recorded statement that includes an admission of fault.
3. Not Taking Photographs at the Scene of the Accident
Some evidence won’t be available later, including photographs from the scene of the auto accident. However, if you’re injured, it’s best to focus on your treatment.
4. Signing Paperwork
In addition to holding off on recorded statements with the insurance company, it’s also a good idea to avoid signing any paperwork until you consult with a lawyer.
5. Admitting Guilt
Even if you believe you may be responsible, it’s best not to admit guilt until you have all the information you need.
6. Not Reporting the Accident
It may seem like too much of an inconvenience to report a minor fender bender, but it’s best to do so. The state requires that you report all car accidents with at least $500 of damages.
7. Relying on the Insurance Company to Help
The insurance claims representative may offer to help. It’s important to remember that they may not always have your best interests in mind.
8. Taking a Settlement Too Soon
Car accident settlements are common. While a settlement can be a good thing, it is important to consider the true value of your case first to ensure you recover what you need.
9. Waiting Too Long to File Your Case
New Jersey limits car accident cases to just two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long to file can make you ineligible to file a personal injury case.
10. Not Being Honest
Honesty is important when dealing with a car accident. While you may hold off on giving certain information until you talk with a lawyer, you never want to lie.
11. Attempting to Represent Yourself
Dealing with an auto accident can be hectic, regardless of the severity of the accident. Working with a personal injury lawyer who is familiar with the state’s laws and insurance company tactics can be helpful. A New Jersey personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the state’s laws while working to get the funds you need to recover.
Contact a Hudson County Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Birkhold & Maider represent clients injured because of a car accident in Essex County, Hudson County, Mercer County, Union County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 947-4670 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 189 Franklin Avenue, Suite 1 Nutley, NJ 07110, as well as a satellite office in Hamilton, NJ.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
