Car wrecks are an unfortunate part of life, especially while traveling on congested roads and highways. Avoiding them altogether is nearly impossible, no matter how safely and cautiously you drive. Knowing the proper steps to take after an auto accident is essential to protect yourself and ensure you obtain a fair settlement to cover your losses.
Knowing the common missteps and avoiding them is also crucial. A minor error could substantially impact your settlement or prevent you from obtaining one altogether. Contact a well-practiced auto accident lawyer at Smith Hulsey Law to schedule an appointment and learn more about the mistakes to avoid after an Oakwood car accident.
When drivers fail to seek medical care, whether injuries are minor or not, it can severely affect the claim and payout amount. Even when motorists feel okay, they must visit an emergency room or doctor’s office for a thorough medical examination.
Car accidents occur suddenly and often leave those involved in a daze in the immediate aftermath. Adrenaline can mask the pain and symptoms initially, but that does not mean they have not sustained injuries. Medical records and bills are also crucial for the recovery claims process to establish damages.
Another error many motorists make after traffic collisions is communicating directly with insurance providers. Making statements in error or admitting fault without an investigation can minimize or eliminate the compensation available to the individual.
Many also accept the first settlement offer, even when it is too low to cover their losses. An attorney at Smith Hulsey Law understands the process and which mistakes to avoid after an Oakwood car crash. They could handle the communication and negotiations on the driver’s behalf to fight for a fair settlement.
Under Georgia law, motorists involved in collisions must report the traffic incident to the local police department immediately when specific circumstances are present. According to the rules of Georgia Code § 40-6-273, drivers have a legal responsibility to report crashes when the following occurs:
Not only is failing to report most car wrecks unlawful, but it can also harm the injured individual’s ability to collect a payout from the liable party. Failing to call the police department immediately is a mistake that can have significant negative impacts. A lawyer could guide the injured party through each step and answer specific questions about the mistakes to avoid after a vehicle collision in Oakwood.
Finally, missing the statute of limitations deadline when filing an auto accident claim could mean losing the ability to hold the liable party financially accountable. In most cases, the time limit for filing the case in Georgia is two years from the collision date.
Specific circumstances of the case could extend or shorten the expiration date. An experienced attorney could review the case, answer specific questions, and handle the legal filings to ensure compliance.
Car crashes are inconvenient and frustrating, and when you sustain severe injuries and damages, knowing the errors to avoid is crucial for obtaining a fair payout. Seeking immediate care from a healthcare professional is essential for your health and the recovery claims process.
Further, reporting the wreck, properly handling insurance company communication, and adhering to state laws are all vital for obtaining the maximum compensation. Contact a seasoned lawyer at Smith Hulsey Law to learn more about the mistakes to avoid after an Oakwood car accident.
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