If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, the aftermath can affect your ability to recover physically, mentally, and financially. Unfortunately, many accident victims make errors that affect their chances of getting fair compensation.
This may include not getting medical attention or giving a recorded statement without a lawyer. To protect your rights and maximize your claim, you must know the things to avoid. Let’s discuss the common missteps people fall into and why you should not do the same.
Failing to Get Immediate Medical Care
Not getting immediate medical attention after a pedestrian accident is one mistake that can harm your legal claim and health. Injuries like internal damage or concussions may not show signs immediately but may worsen down the line.
Delaying medical attention can give insurance companies reasons to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or as serious as you insisted. Seeing a medical expert right away ensures that your injuries are properly documented.
Assuming or Admitting Fault
Assuming fault or admitting to the driver, witnesses, or insurers can hurt your case after a pedestrian accident. Even if you think you’re somewhat responsible, the case details may show otherwise. Admitting fault too early can turn the stakes against you.
Instead, focus on recovering, collecting the available evidence, and allowing professionals to determine who is liable for the accident. Always stay neutral, and let the facts help protect your rights.
Failing to File a Police Report
Not filing a police report is costly and can weaken your injury claim in a pedestrian accident. A police report offers an official record of the accident, including other details, like the driver’s information, witness statements, and initial fault assessment.
Without this report, insurance companies may also downplay your injuries and challenge your claim. Whether you feel okay or not, always call the police, ensure a report is filed, and obtain the accident report.
Giving a Recorded Statement
Giving recorded statements to the other party’s insurance company after a pedestrian accident can be a significant mistake. While insurers may appear helpful, their goal is to minimize your settlements in a claim.
Anything you say in recorded statements can be used to shift blame or downplay your injuries. Doing this will harm your case without you knowing. Whether you’re pressured to give a statement, always maintain your stand.
Accepting a Quick Settlement
While a quick settlement after a pedestrian accident may seem tempting, accepting it can be a mistake. Insurance companies usually offer low settlements early on, hoping victims accept them before realizing the full extent of their injuries and damages.
Once you accept this kind of offer, you’ll forfeit your right to seek extra compensation. Instead, work with a professional who will assess your case, help you determine how much you deserve, and maximize your settlement.
Failing to Hire an Attorney
Not hiring an attorney after a pedestrian accident greatly affects your chances of getting fair compensation. Since insurance companies have teams of lawyers working for them, you’ll need legal representation to prevent mistakes that can hurt your case.
A pedestrian accident lawyer who understands the legal process collects evidence, negotiates with insurers, and fights for your fair compensation. Having an experienced lawyer boosts your chances of a successful outcome.
Endnote
Several mistakes can be costly after a pedestrian accident. These include failing to get immediate medical care, assuming or admitting fault, and not filing a police report. After the accident, giving recorded statements, accepting quick settlements, and not hiring a lawyer may also affect you.
