Car Accident Lawyers NY: 7 Cardinal Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

Car Accident Lawyers NY: 7 Cardinal Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

Naturally, a car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and indecisive about what to do next. Although seeking compensation for damages is your right, if you make the wrong moves, the outcomes of your case can be severely affected. Even small missteps can give insurance companies or opposing lawyers a reason to deny or reduce your claim. Therefore, if you have been in a crash, avoid these mistakes and take legal advice from experienced car accident lawyers ny to protect your rights.

01. Admitting Fault at the Scene

One of the biggest mistakes people make after a car accident is apologizing or admitting fault. Even saying something as simple as “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of liability. Therefore, stick to facts when speaking with the police or other drivers. Avoid discussing fault and let a trusted car accident attorney NY handle any liability issues.

02. Not Calling the Police

New York law requires you to report a car accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or major property damage. Failing to call law enforcement can weaken your accident claim since the police report serves as evidence. Even if the damage seems minor, call 911 and get a police report as an official record of the accident.

03. Delaying Medical Treatment

Many car accident victims assume they are fine if they don’t feel immediate pain. However, some injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding do not show symptoms right away. Furthermore, if you have suffered from a serious injury but avoided seeking medical treatment right away, insurance companies may argue that the delayed treatment is a direct implication of injuries not being critical. So, even if you feel fine, meet a doctor and get a medical report.

04. Giving a Recorded Statement to Insurance Companies

After an auto accident, insurance companies will contact you and ask for a recorded statement. Their goal is to get you to say something that can be used to minimize your payout. Always direct insurance adjusters to your car accident lawyer in New York without making any statements.

05. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies offer quick settlements to auto accident victims hoping they’d be desperate to cover medical expenses. Don’t accept the first offer you get. Have a professional car accident lawyer in NY negotiate for a fair payout that covers your actual damages. Once you accept a settlement offer, it is not possible to pursue additional compensation later.

06. Posting About Your Car Accident on Social Media

While you might feel tempted to share photos or comments on your car accident in New York, insurance companies can monitor claimants’ social media activity and use your posts to argue that your injuries aren’t that serious. Therefore, avoid discussing your car accident case on social media.

07. Waiting Too Long to File a Car Accident Claim

Since New York has a strict statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits, don’t wait too long to take legal action. If you exceed the deadline, you could even lose your right to seek compensation entirely. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. However, exceptions may apply.

Avoiding these mistakes can make a huge impact on the success of your car accident claim. If you have been injured in a car accident, don’t go through the pressure of navigating this process alone. Contact the legal team at Alex Yadgarov & Associates for a free initial consultation and let us handle the legal battle.