5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Personal Injury Claim

If you or a loved one suffer a personal injury, this short guide will help you avoid the common mistakes that people make when filing a personal injury claim. Knowing these tips may help you avoid difficulties and make sure your rights are protected.

1. Representing Yourself

You would probably not have a good result if you tried to perform surgery on yourself, so why take a chance without a competent lawyer representing you in your personal injury case? Industry research shows that the settlements achieved with the help of an attorney are significantly higher than those without representation by legal cancel.

Hiring a lawyer is easy. Just call (281) 475-4535 for a free consultation. You only pay a percentage fee if a settlement or judgment occurs in your favor. Keep this number in your mobile phone, on a piece of paper in your car for auto accidents, and in your wallet or purse for other personal injury accidents.

2. Being Tricked by the Insurance Adjuster

The insurance adjuster is NOT your ally when making a personal injury claim. The adjuster may seem nice and say, “You don’t need a lawyer because they complicate things and slow down the process of getting a check.” The adjustor’s job is to get you to settle the case quickly for the lowest amount possible.

3. Talking About the Accident

When it comes to accidents that cause severe injuries, you only want to talk about the accident with your doctor and your lawyer. Anything you say to anyone that is not kept confidential can harm your case. Talking with a doctor or your lawyer is privileged information that has confidentiality protection by law. Talking to others is not protected.

Suppose you tell a neighbor that you were tired when the accident occurred because you did not get enough sleep. Imagine how surprised you will be to hear your neighbor give this evidence in court when the insurance company tries to use it to blame you for causing the accident.

4. Not Collecting All the Evidence

Your mobile phone is a terrific tool to use to collect as much evidence as possible, as soon as possible. Collect many photos and videos of the scene where the accident occurred. Make a note of anything that was part of the cause of the accident. If you cannot do this because of your injury, get a friend and your lawyer to help by calling them from the accident scene or hospital.

5. Posting on Social Media

Never post anything on social media about your accident. Your information must be kept confidential. Posting on social media gives the opposition access to information that may be a target for misuse. Any posted photos or information might be used against you to deny your claim or in an attempt to pay an unfair settlement.

You can call (281) 475-4535 anytime to set up an appointment for a free consultation and get the legal representation you need to help your case.