A major road accident in McKinney, Texas can leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, and vulnerable. Amidst the chaos that follows, you can easily make errors that could cost you financially, legally, and more so your health.
In this regard, knowing what steps you should take or avoid can make a significant difference, especially if you want to get compensation for the damages incurred. In this article, we’ll cover some tips to help you steer clear of common pitfalls after a major road accident.
Seek Medical Attention Even If You Feel Fine
For starters, you should seek immediate medical attention in the aftermath of the incident. This isn’t beneficial for your health but also in case you need compensation. You might be in panic with adrenaline. The problem is that this rush can mask injury symptoms. You might be thinking that you’re okay when you’re not. This is quite common when you suffer internal injuries, whiplash, or concussions.
The good thing is that if you seek medical attention immediately, the doctor will do a thorough examination to rule out you for the possibility of these type of injuries
Other than putting your life at risk, delaying also weakens your personal injury claim. Your insurance company might seize on the fact that you sought treatment late, twisting it as proof that you weren’t seriously injured.
Even worse, they might claim that your injury wasn’t even related to the accident. Don’t give them the chance to question your pain and deny what’s rightfully yours!
Ensure Safety, But Don’t Leave the Scene
Your safety and the safety of others should always come first. Once the accident has occurred, you don’t want to trigger or be involved in another or a series of accidents. If you’re in a dangerous spot like the middle of a highway, and it’s safe to move, pull over to the side.
Additionally, use relevant signals to alert other motorists about the accident or the presence of wreckage that can potentially trigger accidents. You can turn on your hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles if available.
However, never leave the accident scene, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Leaving the scene might expose you to culpability and undermines your credibility as you seek compensation.
Tip: Only leave the scene if you are seeking medical attention because your health comes first.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney Early
Many accidents often lead to legal issues, and this can happen faster than you anticipate. Whether you think you are at fault or another party is at fault, you ought to be well prepared to navigate the legal space. However, the legal system is always complex, and things can turn inside out without a qualified personal injury lawyer.
A personal injury attorney will help you protect your rights, navigate insurance claims, and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. In fact, don’t sign any settlement offers without legal advice! According to a truck accident attorney in McKinney, TX, those early offers might be a trap and geared towards undervaluing your claim. You should simply find a good attorney first and trust them to help you navigate the legal aspects of getting the compensation you deserve.
Be Careful What You Say!
What you say immediately after an accident can be used against you. The other party(s) might want to drag you into admitting a fault so that they can get their way with minimal resources and time.
Even if you think you are at fault, avoid admitting it! In fact, some other factors might have come into play causing the crash which aren’t your fault.
Just leave it to the police and insurance adjusters to determine fault based on evidence. Additionally, be cautious when speaking with other drivers or posting about the accident on social media.
For example, a simple statement like “I’m sorry” could be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt. If you feel cornered, contact your personal attorney to advise you on the best action.
Notify Your Insurance Provider Promptly
Insurance companies have stipulated policies, and one of them is timely notification in the event of an accident. So,if it lapses before reporting, you risk being denied the claim or even seeing your coverage cancelled, even if you weren’t at fault.
Also,when speaking with your insurance company, stick to the facts and avoid speculating. Sometimes, the other party’s insurance can contact you to obtain some information about the accident.
If this happens, refer them to your insurer or legal counsel. You are not required to give a statement to another driver’s insurer without legal representation because you can carelessly provide information that can prove costly in your pursuit of justice and compensation.
Wrapping up
Recovering from a major road accident is tough, both emotionally and physically. This is the time to do your utmost best to stay calm as you strive to protect your health and rights. After all, these are your two key priorities in the aftermath of any road accident. This is why you should find a good personal attorney to walk with you through that journey to recovery and getting the compensation you deserve.
