Have you suffered an accidental injury in Charleston, South Carolina? The moments immediately following the incident are chaotic and confusing. However, your actions during this critical time can significantly impact your health, your potential for recovery, and any future legal claims. It’s best to hire a Charleston injury lawyer to support you through your accident claim.
Below are tips on what not to do after an accidental injury in Charleston.
Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Attention
One of the most critical mistakes you can make after an accidental injury is to delay or refuse medical attention. Even if you feel fine immediately after an accident, adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms for hours or even days. Additionally, delaying medical treatment can have severe consequences for both your health and any potential injury claim. From a health perspective, undetected injuries can worsen, leading to more severe complications and prolonged recovery times. From a legal standpoint, insurance companies often use a delay in seeking medical care to argue that your injuries were not serious or were not caused by the accident itself.
Do Not Give Recorded Statements to Insurance Companies Without Legal Counsel
Shortly after an accident, you are likely to receive calls from the at-fault party’s insurance company. While they might seem friendly and helpful, remember that their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, not yours. They may ask for a recorded statement, which they can then use to find inconsistencies in your story, twist your words, or minimize the value of your claim.
Keep in mind that you are not obligated to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company without first consulting with a legal professional. Before you say anything that could jeopardize your case, contact a qualified injury lawyer. They will advise you on your rights, communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that any statements you make are factual and do not harm your claim. This is a critical aspect of what not to do after an accidental injury in Charleston.
Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize
In the chaos of an accident, it is natural to be shaken up, and you might instinctively apologize or make statements that could be misconstrued as an admission of fault. This is a common and potentially damaging mistake. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you by insurance adjusters trying to minimize their payout.
When speaking with others involved in the accident, witnesses, or even law enforcement, stick strictly to the facts. Do not speculate about what happened, assign blame, or apologize. Your role is to report what occurred, not to determine fault.
Do Not Neglect to Document Everything
Failing to document the scene of the accident and your injuries thoroughly is another common mistake. Memories fade, and evidence can disappear. After ensuring your safety and calling for emergency services, if able, document everything. This includes taking photos and videos of:
- The accident scene from multiple angles.
- Vehicle damage or the hazardous condition that caused your injury.
- Visible injuries.
- Skid marks, debris, traffic signals, and road conditions.
- Contact information for all parties involved, including names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details.
- Contact information for any witnesses.
Do Not Discuss Your Case on Social Media
While it is tempting to share personal experiences on social media, discussing your accidental injury or posting photos of yourself and your activities online can severely damage your personal injury claim. Insurance companies and opposing legal teams routinely scour social media for information that can be used against you.
Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount. They will offer you a fast payout, hoping you will accept it before you fully understand the extent of your injuries, your long-term medical needs, or the full impact the injury will have on your life.Accepting a settlement offer too soon leaves you with insufficient funds to cover ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering. Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to seek additional compensation later, even if your condition worsens or new complications arise.
