5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Auto Accident Lawsuit

If you live in San Antonio and are injured in an auto accident that isn’t your fault, you probably want to be sure that the insurance company is going to take care of you. On top of the damage to your vehicle, you might need additional compensation to cover medical expenses for injuries as well as any other costs associated with the claim.

The problem is that the process of liability claims doesn’t always go smoothly, and many victims find themselves frustrated by a lack of response from the insurance company in charge, or worse, their refusal to treat victims fairly at all. This can many unsure of what to do next. You may have to consider filing a lawsuit if you reach an impasse.

Many of those injured in an auto accident, however, don’t have immediate access to qualified help and risk unknowingly making decisions that could jeopardize their rights. We want to share five common mistakes to avoid when filing your auto accident lawsuit, so you start your claim with an edge and improve the likelihood of maximizing its potential compensation value.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Auto Accident Lawsuit

1. Representing yourself in a claim
   Sometimes those who have been injured in a San Antonio auto accident will try and take on the other insurance company on their own. Keep in mind that insurance companies and their representatives and lawyers know insurance law far better than the average citizen, and they handle auto accident lawsuits on a daily basis. Successful claims need the help of an experienced San Antonio auto accident lawyer who understands their tricks and will advocate the client’s interests throughout the process.
2. Giving the insurance company a recorded statement
   Insurance companies are notorious for trying to secure recorded statements quickly after an accident, which can be later used as testimony against the victim. In the time immediately following a wreck, you are more prone to forget important details that could be determining factors in who is at fault, and the meaning of your words can be twisted. Never give any kind of statement to an insurance company without first speaking with a lawyer.
3. Not going to the doctor right away
   After an auto accident in San Antonio, some victims may not think they need to see a doctor unless there are obvious injuries. There are countless injuries that are not immediately apparent, and if they are not included in your accident claim, you cannot seek compensation for them later. It is always to your advantage to seek medical attention quickly after an accident.
4. Taking an offer from the insurance company prematurely
   Insurance companies will often try to settle quickly in an effort to reduce their costs. If you accept an early settlement, insurance representatives may also ask you to sign a release preventing you from seeking any further compensation. Without an attorney to advise you, you could be forfeiting your right to a fair settlement.
5. Discussing pre-existing medical conditions
   If you disclose pre-existing medical conditions to insurance adjusters, they may attempt to use this as a means of offering you less than you might otherwise receive. Here again, having an attorney representing your interests is always the best option to prevent any actions that might affect your settlement.

The lawyers of Carabin Shaw want you to avoid these five common mistakes to avoid when filing your auto accident lawsuit at all costs. We believe you deserve to be treated fairly and with respect. If you need help with defending your rights against insurance greed, Carabin Shaw is ready to be your voice after you’ve been injured in an auto accident.

Visit with one of our attorneys in San Antonio for a free initial consultation. We’ll discuss your case and explain the best strategy to protect your claim against the insurance company. Our offices have bilingual attorneys available, and Carabin Shaw will not charge you any fees unless we are successful in winning your case.

If you’ve been injured in a San Antonio auto accident, you don’t need to be alone. Let us work for you. Call us today in San Antonio at 210-222-2288 or toll-free at 800-862-1260.

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