What To Do Before You Accept An Auto Accident Settlement
Auto accidents are incredibly common, and they can lead to serious injuries and massive expenses. If you didn't cause the accident, however, you shouldn't have to pay. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Seek Medical Treatment
After a serious accident, you may need emergency transportation and/or medical services. However, even if you don't, make sure to visit your doctor as soon as possible. Car accidents can cause a lot of damage, including soft-tissue damage, which may take time to heal.
For example, if you are involved in a rear-end collision, and your head whips forward and backward, you may develop whiplash, which can cause severe muscle and nerve pain and limited mobility. Naturally, treatment includes the diagnosis, but you may need additional and ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy, massage therapy, or chiropractic care.
If you accept a settlement before realizing you need additional treatment, you can't seek more money. Therefore, it's essential to understand the extent of your physical injuries, including physical pain and suffering, such as deformation, permanent nerve damage, reduced mobility, etc.
Consider Additional Damages
Car accidents do more than cause physical injuries. First, consider the damage to your vehicle and whether it can be repaired. Any other property damaged in the accident, such as a bike on the back of the car, may also be included in the settlement.
More importantly, however, you may have emotional pain and suffering. Car accidents can be incredibly traumatic, which can easily lead to PTSD, anxiety, and even depression. You may become fearful of driving or being on the road or become withdrawn from family and friends.
Long-term or permanent physical injuries can also trigger emotional pain and suffering. For example, if you have nerve damage, you may also have depression or anger regarding the limited movement, especially if it reduces your ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
Consult With an Attorney
Ultimately, if you've been injured in an auto collision, you should contact an attorney. They will communicate and negotiate with the insurance carrier on your behalf. Plus, they will present you if the case ends up in court. Best of all, in many cases, personal injury attorneys don't receive payment unless you win your case.
After an accident, don't jump to accept a settlement. First, determine the extent of your injuries and consult with a good attorney. If you would like to know more, contact a personal injury attorney today.
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