Every day, car accidents occur, and for most drivers, it's not a matter of "if" they'll be involved in one, but "when." Due to the likelihood that you will be involved in a car accident at least once in your lifetime, it is crucial that you know what to do in the event of a car accident. We don't want your claim to be negatively impacted if you don't follow the necessary steps and procedures.

In order to maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve in the event of a car accident, we advise you NOT to commit the following errors when filing a claim:

1 - Not Filing a Police Report / Calling the Police

We strongly advise calling the police to the accident scene and having them file a report. If the police do not arrive, visit the station within a day (if possible) of the accident and file your own report. Police reports can be extremely useful in car accident claims, and they also ensure that the other driver has not given you false contact information. You can file a car accident claim without filing a police report, but doing so can make the process more difficult.

2 - Not Preserving Evidence

The most effective approach is to preserve physical evidence to the best of your ability, so that you can paint an accurate picture of what actually occurred. We advise taking numerous photographs of the accident scene, including skid marks, weather conditions, the location where the vehicles landed, your injuries, and anything else relevant to the accident. You can also record video and save any soiled, torn, ripped, or bloody clothing from the accident.

3 - Claiming That you are Responsible for the Accident

NEVER say you're responsible for an accident. Do not say, "I'm sorry" or "It was my fault entirely." Even if you believe you were at fault, this may not be the case. Instead, insurance companies should decide. If you assume responsibility, the claims process can be filled with challenges.

4 - Failing to Get the Other Driver’s Information

Always obtain the license, registration, auto insurance, and license plate number of the opposing driver. Obtain their address and phone number as well. If you do not receive the above-mentioned vehicle information and they provide you with a false address and cell phone number, you may never be able to contact them again.

5 - Not Seeing a Doctor in a Timely Manner

If you do not visit a doctor within 72 hours of an accident, it sends a strong message to the insurance company that you are not seriously injured. By delaying medical treatment, the insurance company may question the legitimacy of your claim. Our recommendation is to visit a doctor, a chiropractor, or both as soon as possible. If you can seek medical care on the same day, that's wonderful. If not, do so between 24 and 72 hours after the crash.

6 - Making/Giving a Recorded Statement

It is unwise to give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver's insurance provider without the approval and presence of your attorney. DO NOT give any recorded statements without the prior approval of a personal injury attorney. Otherwise, the insurance company could use what you say against you or find ways to discredit your statements in order to reduce the value of your claim.

7 - Signing a Medical Authorization Release

Do not sign the Medical Authorization Release without first consulting with your attorney. If you sign this document, the insurance company can investigate your medical history in depth to argue that you have pre-existing injuries and that your claim should be reduced or denied as a result.

8 - Accepting a Low Settlement Offer

Please do not represent yourself. Self-representation typically results in accepting a low settlement offer. Why is it so? Because plaintiffs do not comprehend the value of their case, they will accept the insurance company's assertion that their claim has little value. To protect your best interests, you should retain a Vermont auto accident lawyer. We are available to help you with your claim today, and we can seek maximum compensation for you.

9 - Not Consulting With a Vermont Car Accident Attorney

We recommend that you discuss your car accident claim with an experienced Vermont auto accident attorney, such as Brandon J. Broderick. It is best to focus on healing and let an attorney with experience in car accident personal injury claims handle dealing with insurance companies and other parties who are not looking out for your best interests. We will be by your side every step of the way and will do everything that we can to help you recover and secure the compensation that you are entitled to. Contact us today for an absolutely free consultation.