Car accident cases are rarely as cut and dry as they may seem. Many individuals who have been struck by another driver believe the process to recover compensation will be simple, after-all they did nothing wrong, right? Unfortunately, the burden of proving fault can be difficult and then, even once you have proven the other driver was at-fault, recovering a fair amount of money for your losses can feel like an uphill battle.
Not only should you receive compensation for the obvious expenses, such as medical treatment, physical therapy, property damage, and lost wages, you also should be compensated for the pain and suffering you have endured as a result of your car accident case.
Working with an experienced car accident attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. Not only is experienced Houston car accident attorney, Beverly R. Caruthers able to provide you with excellent legal representation, she will also communicate directly with insurance adjusters, ensuring you are given a fair settlement offer in your case.
Beware of the Most Common Mistakes Made in Car Accident Cases
Not taking photos: Most people have smartphones with a camera, so make sure to use this handy tool after an accident. Taking photos gives you evidence in the event of legal issues. Photos also can help your insurance company determine the extent of the damage after the accident.
Pro tip: If your insurance company sends an adjuster or other representative to check out the damage, remember to ask for a copy of their photos as well as their report for your own records.
Not writing down notes: It is easy to forget key facts about the accident in the days or weeks after the actual crash. As soon as you can after the accident, write down notes about what you remember from the event and other potential facts that could be relevant.
Creating a record of the accident details when they are fresh in your mind could be helpful as you work through the claims process.
Posting to social media: One of your first instincts may be to post about the accident on your social media accounts. This can be a bad idea and may even put you in legal jeopardy if your case goes to court.
It also can reveal information that your insurance company might use against you.
Limit any talk about the accident to the professionals who are working with you to settle the claim.
Not exchanging information: After an accident, exchange insurance information with other drivers who were part of the incident.
Keep your insurance card in a handy place like your glove compartment so it’s easily available in case of an accident.
Waiting too long to file a claim: You may wish the accident would just go away, especially if you didn’t suffer substantial damage. But insurance companies prefer you to contact them as soon as you safely can after the wreck.
Delaying a claim might cause issues with your insurance company. So, get on the phone right away and let your insurer know what happened. Then, closely follow the insurer’s instructions for filing a claim.
Pro tip: Purchasing the right car insurance is one of the best ways to protect your bank account. Don’t skimp on this important coverage.
Leaving the accident scene: Never leave the scene of the accident. Get to a safe place out of traffic, exchange insurance information and wait for police to arrive.
Even if your instincts push you to flee this unhappy event, remain calm and do the right thing by staying put until it’s appropriate to leave.
Not filing a police report: Some insurance companies may require a police report, so call your local police department as soon as possible after the accident.
When the officers arrive, they can take statements from the drivers and advise you on what to do next. You also can get information from them about how to obtain a copy of the report so you have it for any insurance claim you file.
Accepting responsibility for the accident: Who was responsible for your accident? That’s something for police officers, your insurance company, and others to decide.
You should never apologize at the scene of an accident, because that can be considered an admission of guilt regardless of whether or not the accident was your fault.
Instead, simply disclose relevant factual information about the accident. There is no need to go overboard.
Giving too much information to the insurance company: Insurance companies can help you get your car in running condition again. But claim agents, adjusters, and other insurance company employees work for the insurer, not for you.
Give your insurance company the information it needs, but stick to the facts and basic evidence. Answer the questions that need to be answered, but don’t volunteer more information than is necessary.
Underestimating possible injuries: A collision can cause injuries. So, seek out a medical professional after an accident if something doesn’t feel right.
Delaying treatment can affect how well you recover. It also might cause problems with medical insurance or auto insurance claims.
Car accident victims that are left with injuries are often left with enormous medical expenses, on top of their pain and suffering. Car accident attorney, Beverly R. Caruthers understands how difficult these situations can be. Not only are you dealing with you car accident injuries and trying to find proper medical care, you also have to navigate the process of filing a car accident claim.
Our law office will evaluate your case with zero obligation or cost to you, regardless of what kind of auto accident you have been through. This includes truck accidents, and all other motor vehicle collisions. We help you file a claim and will communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf to ensure you are protecting yourself against their predatory tactics. If you have been involved in a car accident in Houston, call us today for your free case evaluation.
Spanish Speaking Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
Spanish-speaking individuals can have a more difficult time seeking justice in their personal injury cases due to language barriers. This causes them to not take action against those who have left them with financial devastation and physical trauma. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, our team refuses to let a language barrier affect your right to justice and compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and is in need of Spanish-speaking legal advice, our team is here for you.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident and suffered an injury, experienced loss of income, or are unable to work due to a car accident, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert in your personal injury case. Whether you missed work due to an injury or due to not having access to a vehicle, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers can help you!
Beverly R Caruthers Law Office
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 620
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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