Erin Lane
Last Updated on June 21, 2024 by Team Experts
According to data, over 35,000 automobile accidents happen daily in the United States. A car crash can understandably flip anyone’s world upside down in seconds. The aftermath of an automobile accident is often expensive, which makes this bad situation worse.
Fortunately, you may have the right to seek compensation from the other driver or drivers involved in your crash. But how do you ensure you receive the post-accident compensation you deserve? Follow the tips below to learn how to fight for total compensation after a car accident.
1. Don’t Admit Fault
The aftermath of a motor vehicle collision often feels shocking and confusing. Combining these feelings with another angry driver could make you believe you’re at fault for a vehicle collision. Regardless of whether you’re at fault, it’s best to avoid admitting it at the scene of your accident.
For one, admitting fault to another driver gives them evidence to use against you. The last thing you want to do is admit fault when unsure whether you caused an automobile accident.
Another reason to avoid admitting fault is that it’s unnecessary. Police officers will arrive on the scene to create an official report detailing who’s at fault for this accident. If you and the other party have legal representation, each law firm may conduct additional investigations.
2. Gather Every Bit of Accident-Related Evidence
There’s almost nothing more important when determining the worth of a car accident than evidence. Typically, post-accident evidence comes in the form of pictures and videos taken at the scene of a crash with a smartphone. When gathering evidence, get as many photos and videos as possible. Collecting evidence showing all damaged areas of your automobile is also essential.
Besides taking images and videos, writing down the details of your accident is another smart move. Because of how the human brain works, you’re more likely to remember potentially important accident-related details after this incident rather than days or weeks later.
3. Attend All Medical Appointments
Besides damaged vehicles, automobile accidents often cause bodily injuries. Cuts, bruises, broken bones, and whiplash are several common types of injuries suffered after an automobile accident.
Post-accident injuries aren’t only painful, but they can also require extensive medical attention to treat. You may need medical check-ups, surgeries, and medications to heal fully. As you can imagine, post-accident medical treatment can leave anyone with expensive bills piling up.
Keeping up with all your medical appointments may help increase your likelihood of receiving compensation after an automobile accident. Each medical visit you attend, or prescription you pick up creates documentation of your ongoing medical treatment and expenses.
4. Stay in Close Contact With Your Employer
Returning to work immediately after a car accident could be unlikely or impossible between vehicle damage and personal injuries. During this time, keeping your employer informed about your situation is critical.
As these conversations happen, make sure you save them. These saved conversations support your claims about being unable to work and earn wages.
5. Don’t Post About Your Accident on Social Media
Sometimes, getting the most post-accident compensation involves what you don’t do. One activity experts recommend you avoid doing is posting about your recent accident on social media.
Posting about your accident on social media is not a big deal. However, it can damage the credibility of your claim while lessening it if you eliminate your chance to receive compensation. After most automobile accidents, other drivers, legal teams, and insurance providers will watch your social media accounts and posts.
Even the most minuscule accident-related details from social media posts, including text, images, and videos, can be taken out of context and used against you. Whether your social media accounts are public or private, it’s always advisable to avoid posting about your accident.
6. Gather Witness Statements If Possible
A motor vehicle accident can happen anywhere, from deserted roads to crowded city streets. Depending on where the accident occurred, witnesses may have seen it. As you continue building your claim, witness statements can strengthen it.
Of course, witness statements only help you claim if these individuals believe that someone else caused your accident.
7. Get an Accurate Vehicle Estimate
An understandable post-accident concern is receiving compensation to pay for a vehicle. This payment can go towards repairing your wrecked car, covering temporary automobile rental expenses, or purchasing another mode of transportation.
An accurate vehicle repair estimate is one of the best ways to ensure maximum compensation. Sometimes, a mechanic might tell you that your vehicle is totaled. A totaled automobile is not repairable, nor is it a vehicle that would cost more than its overall worth.
8. Contact a Law Firm
The aftermath of being in an automobile accident can make you feel a wide range of emotions, including anger, fear, and being unsure what to do next. Having a car accident lawyer on your side could be wise during this uncertain time.
A law firm specializing in automobile accidents has experience helping clients navigate the aftermath of this complex situation. Additionally, attorneys or lawyers can communicate with the other driver’s insurance providers and legal representatives. They can also help you gather, complete, and file paperwork promptly.
Hiring a lawyer doesn’t guarantee compensation or victory if your claim goes to court. However, these legal professionals may provide valuable assistance in seeking compensation against other parties.
Seeking compensation after a car accident is often crucial. This compensation can help you pay medical bills, get a drivable automobile, and ease your mental distress. While the previously mentioned tips can’t guarantee you’ll receive compensation, they can help you create an ironclad claim against the driver who caused your accident.
Read more: 5 Essential Questions You Should Ask a Phoenix Car Accident Lawyer
