If you are involved in a car crash, it can be hard to know what to do and when to do it to make sure your insurance company is there to help you pay medical bills, lost wages and help with other financial hardships.
But what are the basics of what you should and should not do? With more than 30 years of experience, we’ve seen our share of accident cases go wrong because small details were overlooked.
If you are involved or injured in an auto accident, here are the top mistakes to avoid:
Not Calling the Police
- Wisconsin law states that you should call the police if you think there was $1,000.00 or more in damages.
- You are also required to call the police if someone is injured or if there was $200.00 or more in damages to government property.
Failure to Exchange Information
- Be sure to exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident.
- Get name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle make and model and license plate.
- Take a look at their insurance card and write down the details, like company name and policy number.
Not Seeing a Doctor
- You may heal in just a few days, but always consider a visit to your doctor.
- Some injuries don’t present themselves for days after and accident.
- If you choose to delay medical treatment, even just several days, it can set back your overall recovery.
- Not seeing a doctor in a timely manner also makes it more difficult to fully recover if you pursue your case.
Not Disclosing All Injuries
- Disclose every injury, even if you think it is minor.
- Small pains could try more chronic over time, and if you fail to address a medical concern with your doctor after the accident, it might be hard to link to the accident later on.
- Do not embellish or exaggerate your injuries, but be honest and thorough.
- It is also important that you have proper follow up.
Failure to Follow Through on Medical Care
- Be sure to go to every follow up appointment, even if you are feeling better, until your doctor gives you the green light.
- Gaps in treatment create problems both medically and legally.
Not Calling a Lawyer
- Calling a lawyer right away means that the car accident law firm can start working on your case right away.
- Lawyers can secure surveillance tapes before they are erased, get police reports and medical documents in advance and start taking witness statements while the accident is fresh in their mind.
- An experienced lawyer can help guide you in the next steps you’ll need to take to ensure your rights are protected.
Do you have any questions for our team of car accident attorneys and personal injury attorneys? Let us know how we can help. Be prepared at all time with our FREE car accident checklist, that can help you remember the important steps you need to take after a car wreak.
If you are still looking for the right lawyer for you, consider filling out a free case evaluation and talking with a personal injury attorney today. You’ll see the difference when you have the opportunity to talk directly with an expert Milwaukee personal injury lawyer.