In the US, at least 94% of car accidents are caused by human error. Auto accidents leave victims in physical and emotional pain.
In addition, there may be financial consequences. For instance, the medical expenses, lost income, and car repairs that come with auto accidents can take a toll on anyone.
In such situations, filing auto accident lawsuits can help victims get the compensation they deserve. However, there are common mistakes that people make when filing these lawsuits, which can jeopardize their case.
Keep reading and learn the five mistakes that people make when filing auto accident lawsuits.
1. Missing the Deadline for Filing Auto Accident Lawsuits
Every state has a specific time limit for filing a lawsuit after an auto accident injury. This is known as the statute of limitations. The deadline varies by state. Generally, it ranges from one to three years from the date of the accident.
Failing to file a lawsuit before the deadline bars the plaintiff from ever filing a claim. That’s why it’s essential to keep track of the statute of limitations in your state. File your lawsuit before the deadline.
2. Failing to Seek Medical Attention
Failing to seek medical attention after an auto accident injury can have serious consequences on the lawsuit filing process. If you don’t see a doctor, there won’t be any medical records to support your claim. Insurance adjusters and defense lawyers may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
As a result, they may refuse to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Therefore, it’s critical to see a doctor immediately after an auto accident to document any injuries.
3. Failing to Collect Auto Accident Lawsuit Documents
Collecting and preserving evidence is crucial in auto accident lawsuits. Do not fail to collect documents such as:
- police reports
- witness statements
- medical records
These documents can help establish the cause of the accident, determine fault, and provide evidence of your injuries. Therefore, it’s essential to gather all the necessary auto accident lawsuit documents as soon as possible after the accident.
4. Not Hiring an Auto Accident Attorney
Filing an auto accident lawsuit can be complex and time-consuming. You may not have the legal knowledge or experience to navigate the process successfully. Hiring an auto accident attorney can help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of getting a fair settlement.
An experienced attorney can handle the paperwork, communicate with the insurance companies, negotiate with the defense, and represent you in court if necessary. Proper communication is essential when getting legal services. You can view this bilingual car-accident attorney for legal experts that speak multiple languages.
5. Failing to Document All Damages
It’s crucial to document all damages related to the accident. This includes:
- medical bills
- lost income
- car repairs
- pain and suffering
Failing to document all damages can result in a lower settlement or even no settlement at all. Keeping records of all expenses related to the accident can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Avoid These Costly Mistakes
Filing auto accident lawsuits can help victims get the compensation they deserve. Avoid these common mistakes that people make when filing these lawsuits.
Be aware of the statute of limitations. Seek medical attention immediately. Collect and preserve all evidence. Hire an experienced attorney, and document all damages related to the accident. You can increase your chances of getting a fair settlement and move on from the trauma of the accident.
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