3 Costly Mistakes To Avoid in a Car Crash Case
A car accident, no matter how minor, can instantly disrupt your life. On top of the initial shock, you may also be dealing with your injuries, mounting medical bills, and the emotional toll of the accident. Assuming you’ve done everything right after the car accident, that is, gathered evidence at the scene, sought medical attention, notified your insurer, and hired a lawyer, you might feel confident that you’ve taken all the necessary steps to protect your case. And you should be proud of that. But did you know you may be susceptible to certain mistakes that could harm your case? Here are three common missteps to avoid to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
- Lying or Withholding Information From Your Lawyer
One of the worst mistakes you can make is not being completely honest with your attorney. Some people either withhold details about the crash or lie because they fear it will harm their case or make them look bad. Some exaggerate injuries or facts to strengthen their case, but this can easily backfire.
Your attorney is there to fight for you with the facts of the case, both good and bad. You should not compromise your case by letting your attorney find missing details, especially if it’s coming from the opposing counsel. This can not only damage your credibility but also weaken your case. Instead of trying to manipulate the situation, be honest with your lawyer. When your lawyer knows the full story, however “embarrassing,” they can better protect your best interests.
- Posting About the Crash on Social Media
With so many of us sharing our lives online, it’s easy to forget that social media can significantly hurt your accident case. Anything you post, such as photos, updates, or even casual comments, can be twisted and used against you. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers always seek ways to minimize your claim.
For example, if you post a picture of yourself out with friends, the insurance company might argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. Even a simple “I’m feeling better” comment to a friend can be misinterpreted to mean you no longer need as much compensation as you’re asking for. Also, your statements might contradict your lawyer’s legal arguments on your behalf. The best way to ensure your case isn’t compromised is to stay off social media entirely while the case is ongoing. If you must be on social media, avoid discussing anything related to the accident or what could be misinterpreted to harm your case.
- Deleting or Altering Evidence
If you’ve already posted something about your accident online, you might be tempted to go back and delete it. However, this can be seen as tampering with evidence and, at worst, admitting guilt or attempting to hide the truth. Before removing your posts, talk to your attorney about them. Your lawyer can advise you on the best approach that will not make your case attract suspicion. The same applies to discarding medical records, repair bills, or any documentation related to your accident. The more evidence you preserve, the stronger your case will be.
Contact a London, KY Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been in a car accident, contact our experienced London, KY and Southeast Kentucky car accident attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm today to protect your rights and ensure you get the maximum compensation available.
