If you are the victim of a personal injury accident, then the steps that you follow in the upcoming days, weeks, and months are critical to ensuring that you receive the compensation that you deserve. The reality is that personal injury cases depend on the timing and accuracy of the evidence that is collected. Not only do you need to gather the right information, but there are also personal injury mistakes to avoid.
Even a seemingly small mistake might cause your case to be dismissed. Or you might receive lower compensation. So, make sure that you are working closely with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help with building your case and ensuring an optimal outcome.
What Not to Do After a Personal Injury: The Top Errors People Make
Over the years, our team at Green Law Firm has worked with many personal injury clients. Not only have we dialed in the best strategies to ensure optimal outcomes for our clients, but we also help you avoid some of these common personal injury claim mistakes that can hurt your case.
Here’s what you need to know if you are wondering what not to do after a personal injury accident:
- Delaying Medical Attention: Even if it seems like your injuries are minor, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Keep in mind that these medical records will be the foundation of your case. Also, some injuries don’t show up right away. You need full documentation for the immediate injuries as well as the longer-term effects that pop up after the accident.
- Admitting Fault: It’s better to say nothing about the accident without talking to your lawyer first. If you admit fault or apologize for the accident, then these statements might be used against you later. Make sure that you are sticking to the facts and minimizing discussions before you get legal support.
- Posting on Social Media: Every personal injury victim needs to know how social media can impact your injury claim. Not only should you avoid discussing the claim on social media but also stop posting anything related to your seemingly unrelated activities. Insurance adjusters will likely be viewing your posts, which could have a negative impact on your settlement.
- Procrastinating Your Claim: Keep in mind that statutes of limitations are in place that limit the amount of time you have to file your personal injury claim. Not only will filing the claim quickly ensure that you don’t miss these deadlines. But timing matters for collecting evidence. The longer you wait, the harder it is to collect the strong evidence you need to get the best settlement.
- Talking to an Insurance Rep: Should I talk to the insurance company after an accident? While these conversations need to happen, you shouldn’t talk to the insurance representative without consulting with your lawyer first. You need legal advice before any of this communication occurs. Remember that insurance adjusters are working hard to limit the payouts, so they will try to twist anything that you say about the accident or your injuries.
- Not Documenting the Scene: If you are able to collect information at the scene, then take a few minutes to take photos and videos. Ask other people (including witnesses) for their contact information. If your injuries prevent you from gathering this evidence, then ask for someone to help you with documentation. This early evidence can be critical for strong negotiations later.
- Settling Too Quickly: Even though you have bills that are piling up and you want to just be finished with the settlement, don’t take an early settlement because it’s likely they are low-balling you. Once you sign, you won’t be able to reopen the case. So, you need to understand the long-term costs of your injuries and overall value. Then, your attorney can help with the negotiations to maximize the value of your case.
- Not Hiring a Lawyer: Even though the insurance adjuster might seem helpful, they don’t have your best interests in mind. One of the biggest personal injury claim mistakes to avoid is attempting to navigate this process without professional legal assistance. Your attorney will build your case and advocate for your rights every step of the way.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after a personal injury accident?
Immediately after the accident, the priority is to make sure that you receive the medical care that you need. Medical documentation is essential to build your case. Additionally, document the scene and avoid any conversations about who might be at fault in the accident. Talk to your lawyer first.
How can admitting fault impact my injury claim?
If you admit fault or apologize for the accident, then liability might be shifted – which could reduce or even eliminate the settlement that you receive. You deserve compensation, which is why it’s critical to be careful about any statements that are made.
Why is it risky to talk to insurance companies alone?
Remember that the insurance adjuster is working hard to minimize the amount of money that they pay for your case. They are trained to get statements that might limit or even deny your settlement. Don’t talk to the insurance company without first consulting your personal injury attorney.
Protect Your Future: Personal Injury Mistakes to Avoid
The reality is that you only get one shot at a fair settlement. You need to make sure that you are building a strong case and have a lawyer to advocate on your behalf. The goal is to prove the extent of your injuries and how the accident is impacting your life overall.
Our legal team is here to help you know the things that need to be avoided. If there are any doubts about whether you need legal help, then we encourage you to reach out for a no-obligation consultation. We will discuss your case and help you determine the best way to move forward.
At Green Law Firm, we offer the personal injury legal services that you need. Contact us to learn more about the many ways that a skilled attorney can help with your settlement: (956) 542-7000.
