In the days and weeks following a car accident, it is important to protect your interests and rights under the law. If you were injured in a wreck, you may have a right to compensation from the at-fault driver or another liable party. An experienced car collision attorney may serve as a valuable resource in your case, helping you understand the common mistakes to avoid after a York car accident.
For 20 years, Clark & Howell has helped injured clients pursue compensation from those whose negligence or wrongful acts caused them harm. We understand how motor vehicle accidents can create challenges beyond medical bills and property damage, including mental distress and disruptions to relationships. You have a right to compensation for the totality of the problems your injury has caused. With years of experience in complex civil litigation, we give clients confidence as we manage their claims. Contact Clark & Howell today to schedule a case consultation.
Protecting your rights after a car collision in York requires a series of small proactive measures, along with an understanding of the errors you should avoid. Your first step should be to report the accident to local law enforcement and exchange contact information with the drivers of the vehicles involved. Reporting the car accident helps establish a record that will be useful when pursuing compensation through insurance policies or a claim against an at-fault driver. For example, an accident report will generally provide information about the potential cause, contain visual evidence, and list witnesses who may have more information. You also have an obligation to report accidents that cause injury or at least $2,000 of property damage under Maine Revised Statutes § 2251.
One serious mistake to avoid after a car accident is not seeking medical evaluation and care for any related injuries. Medical attention is necessary to document your physical condition after an accident and mitigate the effects of your injury. Waiting too long before seeking medical care after an accident can lead to disputes over whether the injury is related to the crash or whether an at-fault driver is liable for the damages. A defendant may claim that your failure to obtain proper medical care contributed to the cause of the injury. Contact Clark & Howell to learn more.
After reporting the York car wreck and seeking medical treatment, consulting a lawyer can also help you avoid mistakes that jeopardize your right to compensation. A lawyer could provide a detailed and objective assessment of your personal injury case, which may be useful when recovering compensation from at-fault parties. The driver whose negligent acts caused the accident can be liable for the damages from the injuries you suffered, including:
Insurance companies and liable drivers may attempt to shift liability by claiming you were at fault for the accident or by discounting the value of your damages. A lawyer could represent your interests in legal proceedings and defend against meritless tactics from an opposing party to limit your compensation. We recommend meeting with an attorney before communicating with insurance carriers, accepting insurance claim proceeds, or signing a settlement agreement.
Stress and uncertainty after a car wreck are unavoidable. Our firm is here to help you identify the mistakes to avoid after a York car accident, as these missteps could limit or prevent your recovery of compensation in a personal injury claim. Contact Clark & Howell today to schedule a case consultation.