After a car wreck, most victims very much want things to return to normal again. This quest for normalcy could get some in trouble, however. The factors that affect accident compensation are very dependent on timing. Act too quickly, and you might miss out on a lot of money. Wait too long, and your case could not only be damaged but ruined entirely. To learn about these delicate timing matters, read on.
Don't Agree to a Fast Phone Interview
Almost as soon as you are able to speak on the phone, a call could come from the at-fault driver's insurer. This call is not a sympathy call but a call to catch you off-guard. The other driver's insurer wants to get you to agree to some "facts" about the accident, and they warn you that the call is to be recorded. You might think you have no choice but to go along with the call, but that is highly inadvisable. Not only are you still in no shape for making a statement, but your words could be misconstrued and damage your case. You are not required to speak to the other side. Let your personal injury lawyer handle those issues and keep your case safe.
Don't Wait Too Long To See a Lawyer
It's best to speak to a lawyer sooner rather than later. Once you do, you can rest assured that everything is in the hands of a professional that understands things like the statute of limitations, which says that accident victims only have a certain amount of time to file a case or else they miss the opportunity forever.
Don't Agree to an Accident Settlement Too Quickly
It's only natural for accident victims to be interested in being paid for the accident, but caution is needed as well. The other side will likely only offer you the bare minimum and nothing close to what you deserve. The problem is that some victims are so eager to put everything behind them that they leap at the first offer. They might think that some money is better than no money, but unfortunately, once the release is signed, no further action matters. For example, you might find out a few months after the accident that more surgeries are needed. If you have already signed a settlement agreement that did not include future medical needs, there is no way to go back and obtain those funds now.
The above is only a sampling of the ways timing affects an accident case. Speak to a personal injury lawyer to find out more.
