5 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Claim – Van Zandt Accident Attorney Explains

Fatal car wrecks are devastating for families. Those who are fortunate enough to escape with injuries often face an uphill climb to recovery.

Although no amount of money can undo the stress and trauma of an accident injury, a successful claim may help you avoid overwhelming debt or even bankruptcy. As the Texas Department of Insurance explains, victims of negligent drivers may be able to recover compensation for health-care costs, lost income and other damages.

If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is a personal-injury lawyer in Van Zandt who can help you navigate the legal system. Schedule a consultation today by calling 903-297-0037.

Until then, read on to learn five mistakes to avoid after a car accident:

1. Not Talking to Witnesses

Witness testimonies may help support your claim. Eyewitnesses often notice factors that the drivers involved do not. For example, a bystander may have seen the at-fault motorist run a red light or a stop sign. His or her testimony could help you prove liability.

2. Not Calling the Police

It is important to contact the police immediately after an accident, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration discusses. In fact, involving the police is mandatory if the wreck kills, injures or causes extensive damage to property.

Your personal-injury lawyer can use facts within the police report to prove liability. Getting the police involved can also prevent the at-fault driver from lying about the crash.

3. Talking Alone to Insurance Companies

You should only talk with insurance companies after discussing your case with an accident attorney. In fact, your personal-injury lawyer may handle the correspondence for you.

Insurance adjusters often ask leading questions to convince claimants to unknowingly admit fault. Your injury lawyer can help you avoid this mistake.

4. Signing a General Release

Unfortunately, too many people make the mistake of signing general releases. Some sign the “wrong” releases altogether, usually under the guidance of an insurance adjuster. If you sign a general release, you are releasing the insurance company from its obligation to compensate you. Never sign a release without reading it carefully and discussing the matter with your personal-injury lawyer.

5. Using Insurance Money for Other Purposes

Accident victims often prioritize paying medical expenses over fixing their vehicles. When insurance companies pay for property damage, some drivers delegate the money for health-care bills. This is a mistake. The adjuster may argue that your injuries cannot be that serious because the damage to your car did not warrant fixing.

If you were injured due to another driver’s reckless or negligent actions, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is an accident attorney in Texas who can aggressively fight for the maximum compensation. He is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the Gregg County Bar Association. Call 903-297-0037 today to schedule a consultation.