Hopping into the hot seat of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a great way to enjoy the warmer weather. However, the scenic route isn’t without its perils as accidents involving these adventurous rides aren’t uncommon. As such, there’s always a risk your next trip could end in an ATV accident.
While someone else’s mistakes may have left you injured, your own missteps in the wake of the accident could leave you unable to seek compensation. The insurance company will probably put your actions under the microscope, looking for any reason they can find to reduce or even deny your ATV accident claim.
As such, you will need to be vigilant, making sure that you don’t take any steps that might hurt your case. In this article, we take a closer at some of the most frequently made errors and strategies on how to avoid them:
You Posted about the Accident on Social Media
Left reeling in the wake of an accident, it’s no surprise that many injury victims turn to social media to vent their frustrations, seek support, and detail the grisly details of their harrowing experiences. However, the insurance company may keep tabs on your online activity, so anything you post could be used as evidence to challenge your credibility.
This doesn’t just apply to your comments as even images, reviews, and “check ins” could become ammunition in the hands of an opposing party. In most situations, it’s wise to deactivate your profiles for the duration of proceedings so that the insurer won’t have access to your social media feeds.
You Failed to Seek Treatment within a Reasonable Timeframe
There are many reasons injury victims forego a doctor’s visit in the wake of an accident. Some believe they survived the incident unscathed; others might just not have time in their busy schedules to set aside for a comprehensive medical assessment. However, delaying this crucial step carries serious consequences for both your health and the prospects of your personal injury claim.
Not only could you have suffered an injury that hasn’t yet manifested any symptoms, but adrenaline may also be masking the signs of something serious. A prompt diagnosis will ensure you receive immediate treatment, preventing your condition from worsening. Visiting the doctor will also arm you with a paper trail of evidence documenting your injuries, treatment, and recovery.
You Did Not Preserve Evidence from the ATV Accident Scene
Strong evidence is the basis of a convincing case, so if you were able to collect any proof at the accident scene, you should compile it in a safe place. For instance, if you took pictures of the vehicle’s involved, road markings, debris, or your injuries, such photographs could help your attorney determine what happened and who was responsible for causing the wreck. Alternatively, anyone else who saw the collision happen may be able to corroborate your version of events.
Discuss Your Case with a Texas ATV Accident Attorney Today
Were you injured in an ATV wreck? Turn to the legal team at Hilliard Law. We have decades of collective experience representing accident victims, arming us with the knowledge, understanding, and resources to help you achieve a favorable outcome. Reach us at (361) 882-1612 or head over to our contact form HERE to request a free case review with a Texas ATV accident attorney.