If another driver injures you in a car crash, you can seek compensation from them. That is why drivers must have insurance – to cover such events.
While you have the right to seek compensation there is no guarantee that you will get it or receive the full amount you should. Insurers look for ways to shift the blame and reduce their payouts. They are, after all, profit-driven companies whose primary concern is their shareholders.
The following errors could all reduce your chances of getting adequate compensation:
1. Failing to call the police
A police report helps insurance adjusters understand who was at fault for a crash. Claiming compensation will be more challenging without one. Also, failing to call the police is an offense where someone is injured or killed or more than $500 property damage occurs. So it is best to call them, however minor you think the crash is.
2. Apologizing
It might seem odd that saying sorry could harm your compensation claim. However, the insurer could seize upon it as an admission that you were to blame for the crash.
3. Playing down your injuries
Maybe you cannot be bothered with the fuss of going to the emergency room. However, it is essential you do this after a collision as a doctor’s report will be critical to any injury compensation you wish to claim. Even if you think you have no injuries of note a doctor may spot something serious that you missed. Traumatic brain injuries, for example, can be incredibly serious, but may not present signs for hours or even days after a crash.
Learning more about the correct steps to take and the mistakes to avoid will increase the chance you get the compensation you deserve if someone injures you in a crash.