Getting into a car accident is a frightening experience, and dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming.
To help you stay calm and collected if you’re ever involved in a collision, here are some of the dos and don’ts of dealing with your insurance company from the local personal injury lawyers at Feifel Gualazzi.
DO PROMPTLY SPEAK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
If you’re involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, you must file an accident report with your insurance company within seven days. However, the sooner, the better. Although you may not want to report the accident because you think you were at fault, failing to do so within a reasonable amount of time may result in your claim not being honoured. Additionally, Ontario has a no-fault accident insurance system, so you’re entitled to some compensation either way.
DON’T APOLOGIZE TO THE OTHER PERSON IN THE ACCIDENT OR ADMIT FAULT
Although saying sorry to the other party may seem like the right thing to do following an accident, it’s best if you don’t. Apologizing can be taken as an admission of fault. For instance, an apology could be included in the police report and used against you in court. It’s not your responsibility to figure out who caused an accident, especially if you don’t have all the details.
DO COLLECT RELEVANT DOCUMENTS
It’s important to record all relevant information about the incident, including:
the date and time
the location
the weather and road conditions
the extent of any injuries
the number of passengers involved
the extent of damage to the vehicle.
If it’s safe to do so, take pictures or videos of the scene using your smartphone. If you need to see a doctor for your injuries, keep records and invoices of any treatments you receive. All this information will help you build a solid case.
DON’T SIGN ANY PAPERWORK OR SETTLEMENTS
Before making any legal decisions, consult a local personal injury lawyer to find out if you have a case. We’ll evaluate every angle of your claim and help you decode the legal jargon to ensure you understand your rights and obligations. Don’t be pressured into signing any paperwork or settlements without first consulting a lawyer.
SPEAK WITH A CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER IN SAULT STE. MARIE TO FIND OUT IF YOU HAVE A CASE
If you or a loved one was recently injured in a car accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Feifel Gualazzi. We specialize in motor vehicle accident claims, and we’ll help you determine if you’re entitled to claim compensation for your damages. Insurance companies often want to rush through the process to get away with paying out as little as possible. Promptly seeking legal representation will ensure you understand the full picture and the options available to you. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today!