A car accident can shake up your world in seconds. One minute, you’re picking up your first passenger, the next, you’re dealing with injuries, repairs, and insurance companies. In the middle of all this chaos, it’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you money, time, or even your right to fair compensation.
At IDG Legal, we’ve seen it all. And we know one thing for sure: The sooner you talk to our preferred rideshare accident lawyer, the better. Here are the five most common legal mistakes people make after a car accident – and how we can help you avoid them.
1. Admitting Fault Too Soon
After an accident, it’s natural to feel shaken and apologetic. You might even say something like, “I didn’t see you”. But those simple words can be used against you. Even if you think you were at fault, you might not have the full picture. Maybe the other driver was speeding, texting, or breaking a traffic law you weren’t aware of.
Instead of conversing about what you think happened, stick to the facts: Exchange insurance information, take photos, and get witness contact details. Then, let an experienced lawyer determine the best legal strategy.
2. Not Calling the Police
Some drivers try to “work things out” without calling the police, especially if the accident seems minor. This is a mistake. A police report is a crucial piece of evidence that can protect you if the other driver changes their story later.
Without a police report, you could struggle to prove what really happened, and insurance companies might deny your claim. Always call the police or go to the nearest precinct and get a copy of the report. You’ll thank yourself later.
3. Accepting the First Insurance Offer
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their job is to pay out as little as possible. After an accident, they might offer you a quick settlement; but that amount is often far less than what you deserve.
Medical bills, lost income, car repairs, and long-term health effects all add up. If you accept an early offer, you might not have enough to cover future costs. Before you agree to anything, talk to a lawyer who can negotiate for the full compensation you deserve.
4. Not Getting Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine after an accident, some injuries – like whiplash or internal bleeding – can take hours or days to show up. If you wait too long to see a doctor and have no paper trail, the insurance company might claim your injuries aren’t related to the accident, making it harder to get compensation.
Always see a doctor as soon as possible. Keep all medical records and follow up on any recommended treatments. Your health and your legal case depend on it.
5. Not Talking to a Lawyer
Many people think they can handle an accident claim on their own, until they run into delays, denied claims, or unexpected legal issues. By then, it’s often too late to fix costly mistakes.
Our preferred lawyer can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Deal with insurance companies
- Get compensation for injuries
- Apply for workers’ compensation if you were working at the time of the accident
At IDG Legal, we connect you with trusted accident lawyers who know the system inside and out. The best part? Your consultation is completely free.
Don’t Let One Mistake Cost You Thousands
A car accident is stressful enough without worrying about legal troubles. Protect yourself by avoiding these common mistakes – and get the right help from the start.
If you’ve been in an accident, don’t wait. Talk to an IDG Legal lawyer for free and make sure your rights (and your wallet) are protected.
Call us today at 646-687-7587 or tap below and submit a form.
