Protecting Your Accident Claim

No one expects to be involved in an accident or injured by someone else, and the after effects can leave you bewildered and unsure of what to do next. Your life may have been affected to a considerable extent, leaving you injured, unable to work, and can affect your personal and familial relationships. In these circumstances it is natural to want restitution, but it is also vital to ensure that you do not do or say anything to jeopardize your claim. This article discusses tips for ensuring that you do not risk damaging the prospects of success of your claim.

Immediately After The Accident

If you have just been involved in an accident it is entirely natural to want to say ‘sorry’, when in fact you weren’t to blame. Similarly, it can seem appropriate to say ‘it wasn’t your fault’ to the other party involved, when in fact you don’t mean that at all! You might also say ‘I’m all right,’ or ‘I’m not hurt’, which is also natural – but may be words that come back to haunt you much later on when you’re trying to explain yourself to a jury. It is therefore vital that you do not say anything like this to anyone. If it was your fault, don’t admit it: your liability is for someone else to prove.

Stick To The Facts

It is vital that you do not discuss the merits of ‘who did what’ in relation to the way in which the accident occurred. This is not only because exchanges like this can very quickly become heated but also because you can end up admitting to things that will later be problematic. Even admitting that ‘you’re not sure’ about something is enough – and could be the difference between winning and losing your injury case.

Don’t Sign Anything

If at the scene of the accident someone gives you a document or statement, refuse to sign it. The only explanation for wanting to get you to sign something at the time is to void their responsibility for the accident.

Refrain from Discussing Your Injuries

When you have to talk about your injuries, do so in the same language used in your medical report. This means that you shouldn’t use terms like ‘whiplash’, or give anyone your opinion on your injuries. Remember: you are not the medical expert tasked with ensuring your recovery - so it’s best to leave your diagnosis to your doctor.

Gather and Keep Evidence

Make sure you have the best possible record of the accident. Keep a journal of the accident, with diagrams, photographs of the scene, the aftereffects of the injuries you have sustained and the dates and times that you see your doctor or other health professional.

Check Your Insurance Policies

As soon as possible check your own and your other family members’ insurance policies. You may be able to obtain further benefits or services from these policies of which you previously weren’t aware.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, speak to a specialist personal injury attorney without delay.

• If you need help with an Accident or Injury Claim, click here for a Free Consultation with an Accident Lawyer near you to discuss the details of your case. This website is for informational purposes only.