Being involved in a traffic accident is a stressful and painful life event. The aftermath of an accident can also be very confusing, especially if you have never had to deal with an accident claim. Your actions after a crash can substantially impact your chance of recovering full compensation for your claim.
Below are five large speedbumps that can hinder your claim. Try to avoid these mistakes so that you can receive a fair and just amount for your injuries and damages.
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Admitting Fault for a Car Accident
Saying “I’m sorry” or “I did not see you” can be construed as admitting fault, even if that was not your intent. If you are partially at fault for causing a collision, the amount of compensation you receive can be reduced. Never admit fault at the accident scene or apologize. Even if you believe you could be partially at fault, do not admit fault and seek the advice of our car accident attorney as soon as possible. You might still recover compensation for your accident even if you are partially at fault.
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Failing to File a Timely Accident Claim
Under Louisiana’s statute of limitations, your time to file an accident claim is restricted. Waiting to consult with an attorney could jeopardize your ability to recover money for your claim. It is best to call our office as soon as possible after an accident so that we can begin protecting your legal rights.
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Posting on Social Media
Social media can be very harmful to your accident claim. Defense attorneys might be able to obtain access to your social media accounts. Innocent posts could be misconstrued and used against you. You should refrain from posting on social media platforms after a car accident until you consult with our New Orleans car accident attorney.
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Releasing Medical Records and Providing Statements
Insurance companies look for ways to deny your claim or pay less compensation that your claim is worth. If an insurance adjuster requests a release for medical records or a recorded/written statement, do not agree until you consult with one of our attorneys. Pre-existing medical conditions in your records or comments you make in a statement could hurt your ability to recover full compensation.
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Being Dishonest When Talking to Your Attorney
The conversations with your attorney are privileged communications meaning that everything you say is private. You need to always be truthful with your attorney. Leaving out information or telling your story in a “better light” can harm your case. If you are unsure about something, admit this to your attorney and discuss how to answer these questions in the future.
A Huge Pitfall You Can Avoid
One of the biggest pitfalls in an accident claim you can avoid is failing to hire a New Orleans car accident attorney. If you are injured in a car accident, you need and want an experienced attorney and team of legal professionals working on your behalf to obtain the maximum compensation available for your accident claim.
Call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm to request a free consultation and no-obligation case evaluation. Call our office at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a New Orleans accident attorney.