Should I Accept a Check from the at-Fault Driver?

If you’re looking for an immediate answer, the answer is “No.” As an experienced Bradenton car wreck attorney, the team at Neri Law Group understands the aftermath of car wrecks, fender-benders, and other vehicular accidents. Not everything is as it initially seems.

You take a significant chance of not being fully compensated by taking and cashing a check offered by the at fault driver or their insurance company. In the eyes of the other insurance company, cashing that check potentially settles the case — legally, forever.

Here are two reasons why it’s best to consult with car accident attorneys in Bradenton before you accept a check from the other party.

Unseen Injuries

Just because you don’t see any external injuries doesn’t mean there aren’t any internal injuries. Often people suffer from musculoskeletal injuries. These internal injuries cause pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and muscle spasms. Commonly, these types of injuries may not manifest until several days after your accident. A qualified medical professional should assess the extent of the bodily damages and what course of treatment you may need.

Hidden Mechanical Repairs

Sometimes a car accident is just a “bump” or a “tap,” but what if a semi-truck does that bump or tap, and you’re driving a passenger vehicle? Depending on where the impact occurred, you may not see potentially hidden and harmful repairs that need addressing.

For example, a “nick” or a “tap” directly to a wheel well may not always show visible damage outside of scratches or minor dents on the paint. If the vehicle begins to handle differently and fluid appears near the wheel where the impact occurred, it could be a symptom of more significant internal mechanical damage.

Consequences

Suppose you accepted a check from the other driver or their insurance company shortly after your accident. In that case, your chances to recover the costs of the medical care or automotive repairs needed to restore your health or vehicle back to normal decline.

It’s always best to consult with a qualified Bradenton accident attorney to assess your options.