Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident or personal injury can be overwhelming. The decisions you make during your injury case can impact your ability to recover compensation. While working with experienced auto crash injury lawyers can help guide you through the process; there are still common mistakes that can jeopardize your case.
In this blog, we’ll explore the worst things you can do during an injury case and how avoiding them can increase your chances of a successful outcome.
1. Delaying Medical Treatment
One of the worst mistakes you can make after an accident is delaying medical treatment. Whether your injuries seem minor or you’re hoping to “tough it out,” failing to seek immediate medical attention can hurt your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t as severe as you claim or were caused by something other than the accident.
Getting prompt medical attention creates a clear record of your injuries, establishes a timeline, and ensures you receive the necessary care. Follow up on all recommended treatments and record your medical visits and expenses.
2. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
After an auto accident, it’s common for the insurance company to contact you for a recorded statement. They may seem friendly or eager to help, but their goal is to minimize their payout. Anything you say can be used against you, and even seemingly harmless comments can be twisted to downplay your injuries or suggest you were at fault.
Before giving any statement to an insurance company, consult a personal injury attorney. They can advise you on communicating with the insurance company and protecting your rights.
3. Posting on Social Media
In today’s digital world, sharing your experiences on social media is natural. However, posting about your accident or injury can be one of the worst things you can do during an injury case. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will closely monitor your online activity, looking for any evidence that contradicts your claims.
For example, posting pictures of yourself on vacation or engaging in physical activities can be used to suggest that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. To protect your case, it’s best to avoid posting anything about the accident or your recovery on social media until your case is resolved.
4. Failing to Document the Accident and Injuries
Proper documentation is essential in any personal injury case. If you don’t document the accident and your injuries, it can be difficult to prove the full extent of your damages. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, property damage, and visible injuries and obtaining witness contact information.
Additionally, keep a detailed record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life, including pain levels, emotional distress, missed work, and changes to your routine. This information can help your auto accident injury lawyers build a stronger case on your behalf.
5. Settling Too Quickly
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements to close the case before the full extent of your injuries becomes clear. While it may be tempting to accept an initial offer, especially if you’re facing medical bills and lost wages, doing so can result in much less compensation than you deserve.
Settling too quickly without understanding the long-term consequences of your injuries could mean you’re left covering future medical expenses or lost earnings on your own. A personal injury attorney can help you evaluate any settlement offers and negotiate for a fair and full compensation amount.
6. Lying or Exaggerating Your Injuries
Honesty is critical in any injury case. Lying or exaggerating your injuries can severely damage your credibility and your case. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will investigate your claims thoroughly, and if they find inconsistencies or exaggerations, they can use them to discredit your entire case.
Being truthful with your doctors, auto accident injury lawyers, and the court is the best approach. Let your medical records and expert opinions speak to the severity of your injuries rather than embellishing your situation.
7. Not Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Trying to handle your injury case without the guidance of a skilled personal injury attorney can be one of the biggest mistakes you make. The legal process is complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to reduce the amount they have to pay.
A personal injury attorney has the knowledge and experience to navigate negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, calculate damages, and represent you in court if necessary. They can ensure that your rights are protected and you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.
What to Do Instead: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident or due to someone else’s negligence, the best thing you can do is contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They will help you avoid common mistakes and guide you through the legal process.
Here are a few steps you can take to help your attorney build a strong case:
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow through on any recommended treatments.
- Avoid giving statements to the insurance company before consulting your lawyer.
- Keep detailed records of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
- Document the accident and your injuries thoroughly.
- Be patient and allow your attorney to negotiate a fair settlement rather than settling quickly.
Get Help from a Skilled Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident or other personal injury, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. An experienced auto accident injury lawyer, will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
