Many people who are seriously injured in crashes fail to get the full amount of compensation they should. Vehicle crash injuries can devastate a family’s finances, so it’s important to understand what you can do to increase the chance you get the compensation you deserve.
Here are some actions you can take that should help.
1. Notify the police
Reporting a collision to the police is obligatory for all but the most minor ones. Even then, it is still wise to call 911 from the scene, as injuries are not always apparent. The police should gather evidence and file a report, both of which could help support your claim.
2. Take the offer of medical attention
Many people brush away first responders’ offer to take them to the hospital in the aftermath of a collision. Doctors can pick up on injuries you might not notice or might not realize the seriousness of. The medical notes they make will also be crucial if you hope to file for compensation, and the sooner you get the check-up, the clearer it will be that the injuries resulted in the crash rather not elsewhere.
3. Avoid dealing with the other party’s insurer
Insurers are after one thing in a crash – to minimize the amount they pay out. The better they can do this, the happier their shareholders will be. Insurers often contact injured parties soon after a crash to try and get them to agree to a settlement. They know people are vulnerable at this point and often unaware of their rights and how much they could be due.
It’s easy to think an offer sounds generous when it is anything but. Telling an insurer to deal directly with your legal team is a far safer option. Having legal guidance can also help you understand what you may be entitled to and how best to present a claim.