Car accidents can be inconvenient when you have a busy schedule and are in a hurry. When you experience a minor accident, you might think accepting a check from the faulty driver is a good idea. You can cover the car`s damages and go on with your day. However, if you reach out to a car accident attorney, they may tell you that accepting a check is not necessarily in your best interest. Avoiding documenting the accident will severely impact your compensation claim. If you need compensation for additional expenses, it is best practice to document the accident as evidence.
Car accidents can inflict severe injuries and property damage. You might not immediately notice that you are hurt or that your car sustained significant damage. You might not know how to proceed when a car accident happens. The following points might prove helpful to you.
What Should You Do After a Car Crash
The first thing you must do after a car accident is to call 911. When the police officers arrive, ask them for a police report that contains details about the accident`s circumstances. If you or anyone else is seriously injured, request an ambulance. Otherwise, be sure to follow up with a doctor to get an examination. Some symptoms can take days, weeks, or months to develop.
Obtaining a medical report on your injuries can be helpful when filing for compensation with your insurance company. Furthermore, you should contact a personal injury attorney and seek legal advice about how to proceed in your situation.
How Accepting a Check Can Affect a Compensation Claim
Accepting a check as a fast resolution for your damages might be tempting if you are in a hurry. Involving the authorities can turn the situation into a legal matter. Although it might look like an inconvenience in your schedule, documenting the circumstances in which the accident occurred will work in your favor.
When a faulty driver offers to write a check, they may have done something illegal. The driver might lack valid auto insurance or might not have a driver`s license. In some cases, the driver could be under the influence of illicit substances, making him a threat in traffic. Additionally, the sum offered might not be enough to cover potential repair costs, medical expenses, or lost wages.
Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
If you contact an attorney after an accident, they can tell you that accepting a check does not ensure it will not bounce. However, this does not prevent you from pursuing compensation. A qualified lawyer can guide you through negotiations and give you valuable advice.
You should refrain from negotiating a settlement with an insurance company on your own, as they might try to provide as little compensation as possible. Giving early notice to your insurer and providing police and doctor reports describing your situation can prevent them from dismissing your claim. Your attorney can negotiate a settlement to ensure you receive full compensation for your damages. They can present the evidence and fight for your rights while you recover from your injuries.