Auto Accident

3 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

When you’re hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to worry about anything jeopardizing your chances of getting compensation. After all, the facts should stand on their own, right? In a perfect world, that would be the case, but in reality, the other driver and their insurer will likely be resistant to your efforts to get compensation.

One way they do that is by pouncing on any “mistake” you make in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash. These mistakes include:

  • Admitting fault for the crash

Never admit fault for an accident to the other driver, the responding police officer, or the insurance company, whether it’s yours or the other driver’s insurer. Even if an investigation later reveals you couldn’t possibly have been at fault, the damage may be done and you may be unable to get compensation.

  • Not getting medical treatment right away

To get compensation from the insurance company, you need to be able to prove that your injuries are serious and were caused by the car accident. If you wait too long to get medical treatment, the insurance company may believe that your injuries either aren’t serious or that they weren’t caused by the crash.

  • Waiting too long to file a claim

Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date they occurred. But in many cases, waiting even a few months or weeks after a crash is enough to hurt your chances. That’s because evidence may disappear and witnesses may be more difficult to track down. The sooner you start your claim, the better.

At Skolrood Law Firm, our Roanoke auto accident lawyers can protect you from these mistakes. Call us right away after a crash. We’ve got your back, and we’ll work hard to get you paid.