Oftentimes, after a car accident, victims are burdened with both physical and mental trauma as a direct result of another party’s negligence. In addition, victims are often left with economic and noneconomic damages such as expensive medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Victims are legally entitled to file a claim against a negligent party to seek monetary compensation for their economic and noneconomic damages. However, there are some common mistakes that victims make after a car accident that should be avoided as they can hurt your case. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident due to another party’s negligent actions, contact a qualified St. Mary’s County Car Accident Lawyer who can help you seek monetary compensation for your damages. In addition, please continue reading to learn what mistakes you should avoid making when filing a car accident claim.
What are some common mistakes victims make when filing a car accident claim in Maryland?
Although victims are legally entitled to recover compensation after their injuries, certain steps could jeopardize your case. It is important to not do the following:
Leaving the scene of the accident too quickly
After a car accident, you should not leave the scene until the authorities have been notified. It is important to remain on the scene of the accident to file a police report. It is important to file a police report as it documents the accident. Additionally, you should try to gather any witnesses’ contact information as they help corroborate your claim later on. If you leave the scene without noting important details that can be used as evidence to determine fault in your case, it could jeopardize your ability to recover reasonable compensation for your losses. Ultimately, you should remain on the scene of the accident.
Losing track of pertinent medical records and exaggerating your injuries
It is important to keep track of all pertinent medical records as they can prove the origin, extent, and severity of your injuries. In addition, you should keep track of all of your medical expenses. It is also important to not exaggerate your injuries as this can hurt your credibility. An insurance adjuster will approach you and ask you about your injuries. Do not speak to insurance adjusters, they are not on your side. You should be honest about the severity of your injuries.
Missing the deadline
One of the most important mistakes you can make is missing the deadline. In Maryland, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim against a negligent party. You can file a claim at any point within those three years, however, if you fail to file within those three years you will be barred from ever doing so in the future. You will lose your right to recover financial compensation for your damages. It is important to hire an experienced St. Mary’s County car accident lawyer who can ensure you file a claim within the right time frame.
In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident as a result of another party’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our adept team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve a favorable outcome.
