The holiday season is here. It's time for people to gather together for family get-together's and office parties. It's also time for drivers to get a little out of control. According to statistics, about 27,900 Americans are injured during the end-of-year holiday season. If you're involved in a car accident during the holidays, what you do afterwards could determine whether you receive fair and adequate compensation for your pain and suffering. Here are some dos and don'ts that will help you prevent mistakes when you file your claim.

Do File a Report

After the accident, there's going to be a lot of confusion, especially at the scene. Whether you're seriously injured, or not, you need to call 911 and ask for police assistance. Once the police arrive, request that they file a collision report. This will ensure that they take a thorough report of the accident, including vital information such as driver's information, insurance details, and a drawn-out diagram of the accident scene. The collision report will also provide information on any witnesses to the accident.

Don't Give the Insurance Company a Recorded Statement

The insurance companies are going to call you for detailed statements. Go ahead and talk to them, but don't agree to give a recorded statement – especially to the insurance company for the other driver. They're going to be looking for reasons to deny your claim. Once they have your recorded statement, they can use any variations against you. Unfortunately, it's natural to remember things slightly different in the days and weeks following an accident. However, one small variation between your recorded statement and a future statement, could jeopardize your claim.

Do Complete All Your Medical Treatment

After the accident, you need to seek medical attention. Even if you don't think you're seriously injured, you still need to see a doctor. The adrenaline rush after the accident may mask your injuries for a few days. Go to the emergency room and allow the doctors to give you a full accident exam. If they do find injuries, be sure to complete all the medical treatment you're prescribed. Failing to complete your medical care, or not following doctor's order, could result in a reduced settlement.

Don't Try to Go It Alone

Finally, if you've been in a car accident, don't try to go it alone. Talk to an attorney as soon as possible – preferably one who specializes in personal injury cases. The insurance company will have attorneys working for them, trying to find any reason to deny your claim. To ensure that you receive a fair and adequate settlement, you'll need legal representation.

If your holiday season is interrupted by a car accident, don't take chances with your health or your insurance claim. Use the tips provided here to make sure you receive everything you're entitled to. If you have questions about your personal injury case, be sure to talk to an attorney, like Jack W Hanemann, P.S., as soon as possible.

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