When people are involved in bus accidents, they often forget that the adrenaline rush can mask injuries. They say they are fine until a few days later when their neck hurts or they cannot raise their arm. Not seeking medical attention is one of the mistakes to avoid after a Clermont bus accident. Other mistakes include not seeking help from an attorney.
The dedicated bus accident attorneys at Largey Law could review the facts of your case, safeguard your legal rights, and help you avoid errors that might limit your financial recovery. They could communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, gather critical evidence before it disappears, and guide you through each step of the process while you focus on healing. Reaching out for legal support early gives you a better chance to pursue the compensation you need after a Clermont bus accident.
Not Documenting the Accident
Florida motorists must report an accident as soon as possible if a person suffers injuries, dies, or if property damage exceeds $500. Most bus accidents involve serious injuries or extensive damage, so drivers should report them to local law enforcement through a 911 call. Responding officers then prepare a police report that documents the scene, issues citations, and includes statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
Anyone involved in an accident should document the scene rather than rely only on a police report. They should take photographs or videos of the vehicles, roadway, and surrounding conditions, and note the presence of any traffic or surveillance cameras. Drivers should also collect contact information for all witnesses and request that they share any photographs or videos they captured. Tracking down witnesses or recreating an accident scene takes significant time after the fact. Better documentation leads to a more straightforward claim.
Admitting Fault
In the chaos after a bus accident, drivers or passengers may apologize or say they are sorry. Law enforcement or insurers may interpret these statements as admissions of guilt. Anyone involved in a Clermont bus accident should avoid admitting fault and limit discussions to the facts. Speculating about what happened may create conflicting statements and complicate future compensation discussions.
Speaking to an Insurance Company
Florida is a no-fault accident state, which means drivers must first file a claim with their own insurance company. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will compensate for accident-related medical expenses and lost wages up to the policy limits. If injury costs exceed PIP coverage, an injured person may pursue the responsible party for additional damages.
Insurance companies investigate every accident claim. They speak to witnesses, review police reports, and examine evidence to decide what they consider a reasonable payout. However, insurance carriers focus on minimizing settlements to protect their financial interests. Discussing an accident with insurance companies without legal counsel may place someone at risk of receiving lower compensation.
Failing to Keep Medical Appointments
After the initial medical consultation, injured parties should follow medical advice by keeping appointments, attending physical therapy sessions, and adhering to treatment guidelines. Failure to comply with medical recommendations can suggest an unwillingness to participate in recovery. Those who do not actively engage in their rehabilitation may have difficulty securing maximum compensation, especially when the injuries result in permanent impairment.
Contact an Attorney to Avoid Mistakes after a Clermont Bus Accident
Experienced lawyers could help injured parties pursue the compensation they deserve. They identify all responsible parties in a bus accident, including the driver, the bus company, and third-party servicers. They also review evidence, speak with witnesses, and consult medical experts to develop an effective legal strategy.
Attorneys can interact with a victim’s insurance carrier to reach a reasonable settlement and pursue the responsible parties for damages if needed. They will even file a lawsuit to ensure clients receive fair compensation. Remembering the mistakes to avoid after a Clermont bus accident and contacting legal counsel are critical to receiving a positive outcome.
Contact us at the Largey Law firm today for a free consultation.
