A Delaware car crash can be a traumatic and disorienting event. Dealing with the aftermath is often complex. When pursuing a personal injury claim, it is important to navigate the process with caution and avoid common errors that may jeopardize the chances of a favorable resolution.
Avoiding these common pitfalls raises the chances of your claim proving successful.
1. Delaying medical attention
A common error many people make after a car crash is delaying or forgoing medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor at first, certain conditions may manifest days or weeks later. Seeking prompt medical evaluation ensures doctors can identify and treat your injuries. It also establishes an important link between the accident and the injuries in the eyes of insurance providers. Failing to seek timely medical attention can complicate the claims process. It may, too, undermine the credibility of the injury claim.
2. Providing inconsistent statements
Consistency is key when providing statements about the car crash. Whether speaking with law enforcement, insurance adjusters or other parties, be sure to provide accurate and consistent information. Discrepancies or contradictions can raise doubts about the credibility of the account and impact the outcome of the claim. Make sure to review and verify all details before providing statements to ensure accuracy and coherence.
3. Neglecting documentation and evidence
Proper documentation supports a personal injury claim. Neglecting to gather and preserve evidence can weaken the case. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses. Be sure, too, to exchange insurance details with the other party involved and retain all relevant documents, such as medical records and repair estimates. Thorough documentation strengthens the foundation of the personal injury claim.
Per the Delaware State Police, there were 27,830 reportable crashes in the state in 2022. Staying vigilant and mindful of these pitfalls may lead to a smoother claims process and a more favorable resolution.