The Dos & Don’ts of Building a Car Accident Claim
If you’re putting together a car accident claim, there’s no foolproof way to ensure it will have a favorable outcome. Tort proceedings are inherently unpredictable, after all, since so many factors can influence their trajectory.
That’s not to say you’re powerless, however, when it comes to building a strong case. By taking certain steps—and making sure to avoid missteps along the way—you can give your personal injury claim a decent chance of success. Here are some of the most important tips to keep in mind when getting started:
Do Prioritize Your Health
In the aftermath of a crash, it’s imperative that you focus primarily on your recovery. If you fail to seek prompt medical care or if you ignore your doctor’s orders once you do, you could suffer complications for which you’re deemed liable. This, in turn, could reduce the total compensation you’re able to secure.
Don’t Say Anything on Record Prematurely
If the insurance adjuster asks for a statement, it’s best to refrain from giving one, especially early on in the proceedings. There’s no way to be certain of the cause of the crash or the extent of the damages until your legal team has completed their investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement. Should you say something that ends up being inaccurate, it will open the door for the opposing party to challenge your credibility.
Do Preserve Evidence from the Scene
Were you able to photograph the wreckage before leaving the area? Did you get the names and phone numbers of those who witnessed the crash?
If you obtained any evidence from the scene, store it in a safe place until you can give it to your legal team. Other proof worth saving includes dash camera footage, official reports, surveillance recordings, and black box data.
Don’t Try to Go It Alone
While you don’t need representation to proceed with a car accident claim, it’s probably in your best interests to hire an attorney. A resourceful lawyer can take care of every aspect of your claim, freeing you up to focus on your recovery.
As long as you turn to a reputable firm, you can count on your legal team to:
- Investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash,
- Assign blame and then compile the evidence needed to prove it,
- Log all economic damages,
- Estimate a reasonable figure for non-economic damages, and
- Negotiate with the insurance adjuster for a satisfactory settlement.
If settling proves impossible, your personal injury attorney will also prepare your case for court. They can help you navigate each stage of the proceedings, so you can pursue the compensation you deserve.
Speak with a Florida Car Accident Attorney
At Emerson Straw, we know how devastating car accident injuries can be on the whole family. If you or someone you love was seriously hurt by a reckless driver, you deserve justice, and you can count on us to help you seek it. Call (727) 821-1500 or complete our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a car accident lawyerin Florida.