Being involved in a traffic accident can be a stressful ordeal for the victims. Although the initial moments after the crash may leave them feeling scared, the consequences of making a mistake that can harm their rights are often more alarming.
Here are three common mistakes that drivers make after a car crash in Kentucky:
Not notifying the police
Under Kentucky car accident laws, drivers must report crashes to the police when it results in an injury, a death or over $500 in property damage. Even if they think the incident was only minor, they should still follow standard protocols and call the local authorities.
This practice also helps create an official crash report, which they can access and use as evidence when they file their claims.
Delaying medical care
When drivers delay seeking medical care for their crash injuries, they not only risk worsening their symptoms but also affect the authenticity of their personal injury claims.
For example, a motorist waited seven days before they went to the doctor. Because of the week-long delay between the accident and the treatment, their insurer may argue that their injuries did not occur from the crash.
Not gathering evidence
If a driver in Kentucky sustains serious injuries from an accident and their medical costs exceed $1,000, they can sue the other party for damages. However, this legal action would require proving each side’s fault over the incident.
When they cannot present vital crash evidence to the court, it can affect the validity of their statements and decrease their chances of receiving the compensation that they deserve.
Proactiveness can lead to better outcomes
When motorists learn about which common mistakes to avoid after an accident, they can travel with caution and avoid making similar errors in judgment. This practice can not only help them make better decisions about the incident but also safeguard their health and their rights.