In the days following a car accident, you're going to be faced with court hearings, attorney meetings and insurance negotiations. As a victim in a car accident, it's important that you are attentive to your actions and decisions along the way. There are many mistakes that accident victims can make along the way that could prove costly in settlement negotiations. Here's a look at some things you should keep in mind to ensure that you aren't costing yourself thousands in your settlement.

Always Be Honest

Providing false information to the investigating officer or the insurance company handling the claim is a sure-fire way to blow your case. If anyone involved in the accident, the investigation or the claims process can prove that you provided false information, it will destroy any credibility you had in the process, and it may void your claim.

This means that if you did something you shouldn't have done, you'll have to fess up to it. It's important to remember that insurance companies will often hire private investigators or surveillance specialists to monitor your actions during the process. This is usually done in an effort to catch you doing something that proves you aren't injured. If they get you on video doing something you shouldn't and then you lie about it, you may lose your case.

Instead, consider being up front about what you did. Explain that you weren't sure if you would be able to do it or not, and then tell them about any negative physical effects that you may have suffered afterward.

Be Selective About Conversations

You'll probably face a lot of questions from many different people along the way. Whether the questions are coming from the insurance company, law enforcement or the defense attorney, you should direct everyone to your attorney. That protects you from accidentally saying something that could be held against you in court.

Never Sign Anything Without Your Attorney

No matter how straightforward the paper seems, don't ever sign anything related to your accident case without talking to your attorney first. He or she will be able to identify any potential legal loopholes that you may not see. For example, you don't want to accidentally sign away your rights to a settlement by signing something you don't fully understand.

Your goal after a car accident should be ensuring that you recover as best as possible and getting the support that you're entitled to from the individual responsible. When you understand these tips and have a reliable car accident attorney, you'll have the best chances to succeed.