Avoid These 4 Common Mistakes after a Bus Accident

California’s buses are the vital arteries of its thriving metros. Routes connect commuters to almost every important location, meaning no destination is ever out of reach. While this form of public transport is safer than most, accidents do still happen, and passengers often suffer catastrophic injuries that require long-term care.

Thankfully, if you were hurt in a wreck, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other losses by filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault party/parties. However, to be successful, you will need to consider your actions carefully. Often all it takes is one mistake to turn an almost guaranteed payout into an uphill battle.   

Let’s examine a few common errors you should look out for: 

Admitting Fault 

Even if you believe you played a role in causing the wreck, you shouldn’t admit fault when speaking to the insurer or an opposing party. Not only is it possible that evidence will reveal that you are entirely blameless but confiding in other individuals who aren’t your attorney could compromise your case. 

Rushing Into Negotiations 

While your costs might be adding up at an alarming rate, it’s important to exercise patience during this critical stage of proceedings. Accepting a settlement offer before you’ve reached maximum medical improvement could leave you with a payout that doesn’t account for the full range of your expenses. For instance, you might have to undergo unanticipated procedures, book further time off work due to unexpected complications, or pay for replacement services because of a prolonged recovery. 

Providing a Recorded Statement 

If the insurance company contacts you for a recorded statement, you shouldn’t be fooled into thinking they’re on your side. Ultimately, the insurer will be able to use your responses as evidence to dispute aspects of your claim. As such, if you’ve said anything inaccurate or untrue, this interview could do tremendous harm to your case. Thankfully, when you hire a personal injury attorney to oversee your case, he or she can handle all correspondence with opposing parties on your behalf. 

Failing to Preserve Important Evidence 

Whether you took photographs of the wreckage or took down eyewitness statements, you should make sure to save such proof in a safe place. Even misplacing a single receipt or invoice could result in disputes so it’s important to be fastidious with filing away any relevant documents. Other evidence that could be useful in your case might include: 

  •        Copies of correspondence with the insurer
  •        Medical records
  •        Copies of the official accident report
  •        Surveillance camera or dashcam footage
  •        The clothes you were wearing on the day of the wreck
  •        Paystubs documenting lost wages
  •        Invoices for replacement services

Discuss Your Case with a California Bus Accident Attorney Today 

Were you seriously injured in a bus wreck? The legal team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers may be able to assist you in your fight for a fair settlement. Not only can we help guide you through proceedings, but we can also provide tenacious representation at every stage. Dial 1-800-GO-HARRIS or head over to our contact form HERE to pencil in a free case review with a California bus accident attorney.