You are an alert and careful driver. When you get on the road, the safety of your passengers and fellow drivers is your top priority. Not everyone has this attitude. Indeed, some drivers believe that traffic rules and regulations don’t apply to them, and that they can drive in whichever way suits them. Such careless drivers inevitably cause accidents. And if the recklessness of a careless driver has led to a car crash that has caused you injury, you do have legal options.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Your first move after a car accident should be to contact a lawyer, such as the ones found at the Potts traffic law firm. You need someone who will be on your side and advocate for your interests. During the first consultation, the lawyer will ask you to recall specific events that occurred before the accident. They will also ask you about your current state of health and what the doctors say about your future. These statements will form the basis of the legal strategy.
7 Things to Know if You Have a Careless Driver Case
The facts of your case will determine how your lawyer will proceed. However, there are some things you ought to keep in mind. Here are 7 of them:
- Speak to a lawyer before your own insurance company
Even if the accident was the fault of the other driver, you will need to report it to your insurance company. You should speak to an attorney before doing so. Remember, the insurance company does not have your best interests at heart; it has its own. Your lawyer will advise you of your rights as a policy holder.
- Always undergo a physical examination and keep hard copies of the medical documents
You should go straight to the emergency room after an accident. Even if you do not feel as though you are badly hurt, you should be examined by a trained professional. They may detect something that you cannot see. You should ask for a hard copy of their diagnosis and remedies. These will be important documents in any future legal action.
- Never accept the first settlement offered to you
The insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident may offer you a low-dollar settlement. You should allow your lawyer to review it first. If the sum offered compensates you for your medical expenses, loss of wages, and pain and suffering, then your lawyer may advise you to take it. If it doesn’t, then you may need to file a lawsuit.
- Always speak through your lawyer
You should refer all communications related to the case to your lawyer. You should allow your attorney to act as your spokesperson. It is important to avoid any comment, statement, or suggestion that could undermine your case.
- Recognize the severity of your injuries
If the car crash has caused severe injury, then you must recognize this immediately and act on it. If you have had to undergo a succession of invasive surgical procedures or have sustained a permanent disability, the action you take against the person responsible should reflect that.
You may have to sue to get the compensation you deserve. However, the case need not go to trial. Your attorney may be able to present enough evidence against the respondent to get them to offer a just and reasonable settlement.
- Minimize the time you spend on social media
Until your case is resolved, you should minimize the amount of time you spend on social media. The lawyers and investigators on the other side will scour your social media pages looking for stuff they can use against you. Posting pictures on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter of you out with friends and family may suggest that you are not as injured as you claim to be.
- Be wary of unsolicited text messages
You should also be wary of telephone calls and text messages that are from numbers that you do not know. The other side may try to get you to make a statement or commitment that can undermine your case. You should carefully screen all such communication so that you know exactly who you are dealing with before you respond.