Auto accidents are not uncommon. While most of them are fender benders and don’t result in major injuries, others can be more severe and lead to chronic pain.

Sometimes even seemingly minor accidents can result in injuries that show up days, weeks or even months later, often resulting in chronic pain. However, there are several mistakes people make when they are involved in a car accident.

Not avoiding these mistakes after a car accident may end in you losing your claim or compensation.

Failure to report the accident

Regardless of how minor or major the accident is, it should always be reported.

Even if you feel that the accident was minor, don’t shrug it off thinking you have come out unscathed.Without an accident report, you will be left on your own to cover your medical expenses, which can add up to thousands of dollars quickly.

That's why after every accident, no matter how minor you feel it is, should be reported. You should also exchange information with the other parties and file a police report.If the other driver doesn't exchange information, note down their license plate number and the make and model of their car.

Leaving the scene

Leaving the scene of the accident is not only careless but also illegal. Do not leave the scene of the accident where there has been an injury or damage to property. Stop and exchange information with everyone involved.

If you have been hurt or your vehicle has been damaged, you should stop and get the information you can from the other parties.Without this information, you can’t claim compensation for your injuries.

If the other party leaves the scene of the accident, try to get the description of their vehicle and their license plate number. Then call and inform the police.

Not seeking medical treatment

If you're hurt in an accident, however minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Even if you don't feel any pain or that you are injured, get medical attention because some injuries may take hours or even days to surface.

Your health should be a priority, your doctor can help you ensure that you are medically fit. Secondly, failure to seek medical attention immediately can make the defendant and their attorney argue that you weren't actually injured, or that your injuries aren't serious.

Accepting the first settlement offer

In most car accident cases, the at-fault driver's insurance company pays compensation.The insurance company might even send a settlement offer, or a check.

DO NOT accept the first offer.

Remember that the insurance company is a business, and they gain by paying out as little as possible. So, they will never offer you what you deserve right away.

It's best to have an experienced attorney review your case and the offers before you consider accepting an offer.

Talking to the other party’s insurer

You shouldn’t talk to the other party’s insurance company. They will call you to ask you for your story and request a statement (written or recorded.

Anything you say in these conversations can be used against you to deny or reduce your claim. Whatever you say can be used against you when you're trying to settle.

Make sure any communication with the defendant's insurance company goes through your personal injury lawyer.

If you have suffered a workers’ compensation or personal injury, consult the best accident and injury doctor in Phoenix, AZ, at Arizona Injury Medical Associates at 480-347-0941 right away.