New York law allows individuals who have been hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Suffolk County to obtain compensation for their injuries. However, you could jeopardize your chances of obtaining a favorable settlement by failing to seek timely medical treatment or by settling the case before talking to an attorney. Let’s take a look at how these mistakes could potentially undermine your case.
The importance of seeking medical treatment
Although you may feel fine in the immediate aftermath of an accident, it is important to see a doctor as quickly as possible. In some cases, symptoms of a concussion, internal bleeding or whiplash won’t present themselves for several hours or days after an accident. By obtaining medical treatment right away, it makes it easier to prove that the collision was the proximate cause of your injuries.
Why you shouldn’t accept an insurance company’s first offer
It is important to understand that insurance companies want to settle claims as quickly and affordably as possible. Therefore, the first offer that you receive is unlikely to be the best one that the other driver’s coverage provider can make. At a minimum, you should allow an attorney to review an initial offer before deciding to accept or decline it. It’s worth noting that you generally cannot pursue additional compensation after signing settlement paperwork.
Watch what you say when speaking with the insurance company
There is a good chance that you’ll be asked to make a statement to at least one insurance company after a crash occurs. While you don’t want to lie, it isn’t a good idea provide more information about the incident than necessary. In a typical case, anything that you say will likely be used against you during settlement talks or during a trial.
If you are involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver, it may be in your best interest to speak with a personal injury attorney. Counsel might negotiate a settlement that includes money to pay current and future medical expenses.