Common Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Injury Claims

In the U.S., there are 39.5 million personal injury cases requiring medical treatment every year, which is roughly 126.3 cases per 1000. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, only 4% to 5% of personal injury cases go all the way to trial and the highest success rate was in auto accident cases, which is 61%.

When victims get injured in an accident, they can file for compensation, which can be used to cover medical expenses or lost wages, especially if they can’t perform their job. Phoenix injury attorney Weston S. Montrose says that people who file for claims should avoid mistakes such as delayed medical treatment or the lack of documentation of their injuries.

A clear understanding of the claim filing process makes a big difference in its outcome.

Inadequate Evidence Collection

Carefully gather all essential evidence for your personal injury claim to bolster your case. Photograph the scene, injuries, and property damage. Obtain contact information from witnesses, along with their testimonies. Medical bills and records are needed to confirm your injuries and treatment. Track injury-related expenses, including lost wages and medical bills.

Physical evidence like damaged clothing or equipment must be preserved. This can show the accident’s impact and provide additional support to your story. Evidence collection should be detailed and organized to strengthen your personal injury claim.

Missing Deadlines

Avoid missing deadlines to protect your personal injury claim. Missing deadlines might hurt your case and reduce your reward. Personal injury cases need punctuality when completing documents, responding to inquiries, and meeting court deadlines. 

According to the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, if you don’t meet the dates set by the court or the insurance company, your claim could be thrown out or you could get less compensation. It is very important to remember all of the due dates for your case. 

An immediate action is required if you fail to meet a deadline. Explain the situation and try to fix it with your attorney or relevant parties quickly. Staying on top of deadlines can help your personal injury claim succeed.

Underestimating Injuries

Don’t underestimate your injuries while filing a personal injury claim. No matter how slight the injury is, it can become more significant over time. Downplaying your injuries may result in insufficient recompense for medical bills and other damages.

Assess your injuries thoroughly and get medical assistance immediately. Small traumas like whiplash or soft tissue damage might have long-term health repercussions. Healthcare providers should review all your symptoms to appropriately assess your injuries.

Giving Recorded Statements

Do not record statements without consulting a personal injury attorney. Insurance companies may utilize recorded statements to deny your claim. Insurance adjusters may twist your statements or get you to accept fault, which might hurt your case. Remember that you don’t have to give a recorded statement without legal representation.

Consult your personal injury attorney before talking to insurance. They’ll help you handle the problem and safeguard your rights. Your attorney can advise you on what to say and assist you avoid hazards throughout the statement. They understand recorded statement law and can help you negotiate the procedure. By consulting them, you increase your chances of getting adequate compensation for your injuries.

Settling Too Quickly

Avoid rushing into a personal injury settlement without adequately examining your injuries and their long-term effects. If you settle too quickly, your compensation may not cover all your medical bills, missed wages, or future treatment.

Rushing into a settlement can also prohibit you from getting adequate compensation for pain and suffering, mental distress, and other non-economic damages. Take the time to examine your injuries with legal specialists to negotiate a settlement that fully reflects your losses

Conclusion

When filing a personal injury claim, make sure to consult a skilled attorney to avoid the mistakes listed above which could affect your chance of collecting compensation. Stay informed and proactive to protect your rights and guarantee a favorable outcome.