When you have been injured because of someone else’s negligence, filing a personal injury claim may be a smart decision. Through these claims, victims can recover compensation for losses like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Unfortunately, many individuals who have suffered the consequences of an accident make devastating mistakes in the aftermath, leading to reduced settlements or even denials. Here are some of the biggest errors you’ll want to avoid when filing a personal injury claim.
Delaying Seeking Medical Treatment
One of the biggest mistakes people make after an accident is failing to seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine, injuries like internal trauma or whiplash may not present symptoms right away.
If you wait too long to see a medical professional, an insurance company may argue your injuries weren’t serious.
Speaking to an Insurance Adjuster Without Legal Advice
The job of an insurance adjuster is to minimize the payouts for the company. If you give a statement on the record without consulting a personal injury lawyer, you may say something that could later be used against you.
Talking About Your Case on Social Media
Your digital footprint follows you everywhere you go, and social media can be a landmine for personal injury claims. Insurance companies and defense lawyers often pay very close attention to victims’ accounts, looking for posts that could contradict the claims they are making.
Failing to Document the Accident Correctly
One of the most important aspects of any successful claim is strong evidence. Without the right evidence, your case may lack the proof necessary to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
For example, you’ll want to ensure you document the following:
- The accident scene from various angles and perspectives through photos, video, and any written reports that may be taken, such as police reports
- The contact information of all witnesses that were at the scene
- Any medical records or bills that accumulated because of the accident
- Days of work that were missed and pay that was docked
- A journal tracking symptoms, mood, and other notes about your injuries
- Statements from family and friends sharing the impact of your injuries on your day-to-day life and your mental and physical well-being
Save every piece of information that connects to the accident, no matter how small or irrelevant you may think it is. This can be especially useful if you work with a lawyer because they may be able to use smaller and less obvious pieces of evidence to your advantage.
Ignoring Your Doctor’s Orders
When you skip doctor appointments or fail to follow the treatment plans they prescribe, insurance companies may use it against you. They may argue you’re not seriously injured if you are avoiding treatment, which can weaken your credibility and influence the settlement you could receive.
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
A common occurrence with insurance companies is offering a low initial settlement, with the hope that victims will be desperate enough to accept less than they deserve. This is generally not recommended because you may not know the full extent of your injuries, and the offer may not cover future expenses.
Handling Your Claim Alone
Some people question the benefits of a personal injury attorney, believing they can negotiate with insurance companies on their own. However, studies show that injury victims who hire an attorney tend to receive higher settlements than those who choose not to.
Protect Your Rights With a Personal Injury Lawyer
One of the best ways to recover losses after an accident is through a personal injury claim. Seeking prompt medical attention, avoiding social media, documenting everything, and hiring a lawyer can all help ensure your claim provides you with the compensation you need to move forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to another’s negligence in Ohio, don’t let costly mistakes impact your rights. Contact Schiff & Associates today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can fight for you.