After a serious car accident, you have a lot on your mind. You are dealing with serious injuries and costs that are quickly piling up. This is likely stressful and one of the most difficult times of your life. This also means that it is easy to make a mistake that could negatively affect your right to financial compensation.
At Ellis Law, our experienced personal injury attorney is familiar with the common mistakes people make after North Carolina car accidents. We help you avoid these pitfalls and enforce your right to monetary compensation. Below we discuss some of the common mistakes car accident victims make after a serious accident:
Waiting Too Long to File Their Case
Car accidents are subject to a time deadline called a statute of limitations. This time limit means that you must file your car accident claim in court by the applicable period. If it is filed late, your case will very likely be dismissed by the trial court. This is true even if your case would have been successful were it filed in time.
Most car accident cases must be filed within three years of the accident that caused your injuries. If the accident resulted in a death, the wrongful death statute of limitations is only two years. Some rare exceptions may extend this deadline, and some may even shorten it. Further, the longer you wait the more important evidence will be lost to the passage of time. You should consult an attorney as soon as possible after your accident to best protect your rights.
Admitting Fault After an Accident
Never admit fault after an accident, even partial fault. Many people attempt to be nice to the other driver and take some blame for the accident, even when it was not their fault. Doing so may seem nice at the time, but you might be incorrect.
Insurance companies and defendants will use these admissions against you, even if it later turns out you were not at fault in any way. Do not admit fault in an accident without consulting an attorney for advice.
Failing to Preserve Evidence
After your car accident, do your best to preserve any evidence you can think of. The more information and proof you keep the stronger your personal injury case will be. After an accident, you should take steps such as:
- Get the other driver’s insurance and contact information
- Note the names and contact information for any witnesses to the accident
- Get a copy of the police report
- Take pictures and videos of any injuries or property damage
- Retain all documents related to your accident, such as medical bills or repair costs
Not Following Up on Medical Care
Once drivers begin to heal after an accident, some fail to follow up on their medical care long term. Follow all of your doctor’s orders when it comes to your medical treatment. If you do not listen to your doctor or ignore follow up care, it could be used against you by the defendant.
If they can, defendants and their insurance companies will argue that you contributed to your own injuries by failing to take reasonable steps to prevent your own harm.
Failing to Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you suffered serious injuries or incurred significant costs, you need an experienced car accident lawyer by your side. North Carolina personal injury law is complicated and there are many areas that can affect your case. A qualified attorney safeguards your rights and seeks the compensation you deserve.
Get Help From a North Carolina Car Accident Attorney
Avoid some of the most common mistakes by speaking with a North Carolina car accident lawyer right away. Your attorney can ensure you avoid many of these common issues and seek compensation on your behalf.
Our team at Ellis Law has decades of experience representing car accident victims just like you. We approach your case with compassion and intensity to protect your rights throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation of your case.
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