2 Things You Should Never Do Before Consulting A Car Accident Attorney

Getting the compensation that you deserve after being involved in a car accident will often depend both on the steps that you take after the accident, and on the steps that you don't take. That is why it is so important for you to take the time to review the two things below that you should never do after an accident before consulting a car accident attorney.

Never Make A Statement To The Insurance Company

While filing an insurance claim after being injured in a car accident certainly does not constitute a matter of criminal law, you can be sure that anything you say can and most likely will be used against you by the insurance company. This is because it is not the insurance company's job to ensure you get as much money as possible for your injuries. In fact, their job is quite the opposite. They want to make sure they are able to settle your claim while paying as little money as possible.

If something you say in your statement to either the insurance company or to law enforcement helps them to accomplish this goal by minimizing their liability, you can be sure that they will use this statement against you. That is why it is important that you never make a statement regarding the events leading up to your accident or regarding the injuries that you suffered until after you have had the chance to consult with a car accident attorney. If the attorney feels as though they can be helpful to your case, all statements that are made will then go directly from your attorney to the insurance company rather than you personally making any statements. 

Never Accept Any Payment For Your Injuries

When it comes to settling your car accident claim, the law only provides you with one opportunity to get it right. Unfortunately, this means that even if you discover new injuries after settling your claim, you will not be entitled to any additional compensation. This is precisely why many insurance companies try to settle claims as quickly as possible. While it can be tempting to take a quick settlement, it is essential that you do not give in to this temptation since the full scope of your injuries and required treatment may not be immediately evident.

You may also find that you continue receiving medical bills related to your treatment for several months after your accident. For example, while you may receive the hospital bill right away, you may receive a separate bill at a later date for the ambulance that transported you to the hospital. If you have already accepted payment in your case, you will not be able to seek reimbursement for this cost. Consulting with a car accident attorney before accepting any payment in your case will allow them to ensure that any compensation you accept represents a truly fair settlement in your case.

Contact a firm like Lawson Law, P.C. to learn more.


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