In a matter of seconds, a serious car accident can change your life. You may face a long road to recovery or have to adjust to a limited lifestyle. Some crash victims cannot return to work, which can lead to overwhelming debt. This is where an accident lawyer may be able to assist.
According to the Office of Insurance and Safety Fire commissioner, all motorists in Georgia must have liability coverage. However, the insurance company may devalue or deny your claim, which is why it is so important to contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
If you were injured by a reckless or negligent driver, then contact the Crosson Law Group, LLC. Ken Crosson is a car accident attorney in Marietta who can evaluate your case and handle settlement negotiations. Our office is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you would like to schedule a consultation, then call 678-909-0770. You can also visit http://accident.usattorneys.com/georgia/ to learn more about injury claims in Georgia.
Read on to learn five mistakes you should avoid after an accident:
- Not Gathering Witness Details
Witness testimonies may help support your claim. Bystanders often notice crucial factors that the parties involved in the accident do not. For example, a witness may have seen the at-fault driver run a stop sign or a red light. This can help you prove liability.
- Not Contacting Police
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains the importance of calling the police after a crash. Contacting law enforcement is a requirement if there was extensive property damage, or if someone died or was injured. It is a smart practice always to contact the police after a collision.
Insurance companies take claims more seriously when law enforcement is involved. The police report can help you prove liability.
- Making Unguided Statements
Insurance companies record statements. Before you give one, keep in mind that your words may be used to devalue or deny your claim.
A car accident attorney can handle correspondence with insurance companies on your behalf. This can help you avoid mistakes such as unknowingly admitting fault.
- Signing Releases
Signing releases is the biggest mistake you can make. If you relieve the insurance company of its obligation to compensate you, then you may have to pay for medical bills, time off work and other losses out of your own pocket.
A general release includes injury, death and property damage releases, and if you sign it, you will not be able to claim again in future. Never put your signature on a document from the insurance company without the approval of an accident lawyer.
- Paying Other Expenses with Insurance Money
If you receive money from an insurance company for property damage, then make sure you use it to repair your vehicle. Medical bills may be mounting, but if you appropriate the insurance payout for unrelated expenses, then the insurance company may deny the extent of the damage.
Unfortunately, even the safest drivers can fall victim to the negligence of other motorists. However, you should not have to pay for health-care bills, time off work and other losses out of your own pocket.
Attorney Ken Crosson is a member of the Cobb County Bar Association, the State Bar of Georgia and the State Bar of Virginia. If you would like to discuss your legal options with a Marietta injury lawyer, then call 678-909-0770.