Personal injury claims can be extremely complex. It is crucial to make sure that you avoid making any mistakes that could negatively impact your case.
This post will discuss five of the most common and potentially damaging errors that people typically make when pursuing a personal injury claim.
- Failure to Seek Treatment Right Away After an Injury
One of the most common mistakes people make after sustaining an injury is failing to seek medical treatment.
Even if the extent of the injury is not immediately apparent, it is essential to get checked out by a doctor. Delayed treatment can worsen the condition and make it more difficult to prove that an accident caused the injury.
In addition, insurance companies often view delayed treatment as an indication that the injury was not severe enough to warrant immediate medical attention. As a result, failing to seek timely medical treatment can significantly impact the outcome of a personal injury claim.
If you have been injured in an accident, it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Wieand law firm Philadelphia has a team of knowledgeable and professional personal injury lawyers who can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
- Being Dishonest About Your Injuries
Being dishonest about your injuries in a personal injury claim can be a terrible mistake that can seriously jeopardize your case.
Lying undermines your entire claim’s credibility, but it can also open you up to serious legal consequences if you are caught.
There are many situations in which dishonest behavior may seem tempting or even justified, such as when you face mounting medical bills or an insurance company offering a low settlement. However, it is critical to remember that dishonesty will rarely pay off in the long run.
Instead of trying to hide or exaggerate your injuries, it is essential to be upfront and honest with your personal injury lawyer and all parties involved in your claim.
- Failing to Keep Records
When pursuing a personal injury claim, it is crucial to keep detailed records of everything related to the incident. This includes documentation of injuries and expenses and records of all communications with the insurance company or legal representatives.
Failing to document your case correctly can lead to a range of problems down the road, including the risk of having your claim denied or losing out on compensation.
Additionally, poorly kept records can make your efforts to recover more challenging and time-consuming.
- Not Purchasing an Adequate UM/UIM and PIP Insurance Coverage
Unfortunately, many people fail to purchase adequate medical expenses and property damage coverage. This puts their injury claims at risk.
For example, you might be involved in an accident and only have the minimum amount of UM/UIM and PIP insurance coverage. The insurance will not cover any excess medical bills or damages to your vehicle.
Additionally, suppose a judge feels that your failure to purchase enough insurance was unreasonable or reckless. In that case, they may be more inclined to award less compensation or even throw out your claim altogether.
- Failure to Call the Police
Many people fail to call the police after a car accident. This can have severe consequences for your personal injury claim, as doing so can provide strong evidence about what happened during the accident and who is at fault.
Jurors typically rely heavily on the police report filed after an accident, and being able to produce this report can significantly strengthen your case. Moreover, having a police officer testify as an expert witness can be crucial in establishing liability.
Personal injury claims can be complex and frustrating. If you’re considering filing a personal injury claim, avoid these five mistakes. Doing so could help increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
