Planning to File a Personal Injury Claim? Avoid These Mistakes

If you are injured in an accident and aren't the at-fault party, you should get fair compensation. The funds will cover medical expenses, make up for lost wages, fix damages, and manage other costs related to the incidence as you recover.

Unfortunately, getting compensation isn't always easy. Some cases can be complex. Accident victims can also make blunders that hurt their cases. Knowing how to handle yourself will make things easier. Here are common mistakes you shouldn't make when you file an injury claim.

Exaggerate Injury Details

After an accident, you'll need to seek medical help for a thorough assessment and treatment. The doctor will ask a series of questions about how you feel and perform tests. Be honest and precise as you report your injuries. Don't exaggerate your condition or give false information about the injuries. Doing this will jeopardize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

Also, don't discuss details about your health condition with the insurance company or share the medical records without consulting a personal injury lawyer. Lawyers will protect your rights and ensure the insurer doesn't take advantage of your situation.

Hide Information from the Lawyer

Hiring a personal injury lawyer to file a claim or represent you in court is one of the vital decisions you must make. They will offer expert advice and ensure no one infringes on your rights. But the lawyer will need to know the entire truth about the accident to protect you. Remember, they are your advocate and have your interests at heart.

Some people hide information, mainly if they think they're partially at fault. Doing this complicates the case because the lawyer is blindsided. They won't know how to protect your interests due to the lack of information. So, tell them the truth, even if you implicate yourself too.

Take Too Long to File the Claim

Some accidents may force victims to stay in the hospital for a long time. Regardless of this predicament, the duration for filing claims doesn't change. This means victims have to file the claim within the set time frame, or the court won't consider the case.

Be sure to contact a lawyer soon, so they can start the claim procedure on your behalf. A competent lawyer will know the time limitation and the other regulations to follow. They will look into your case, perform an investigation, and file the paperwork on time. 

Assume You'll Get More Compensation Later

Every time a personal injury claim is settled, it voids the probability of filing a claim or lawsuit in the future. You cannot get compensation later after accepting an offer. Consult an injury lawyer instead of negotiating the settlement on your own or taking the first deal the insurance company provides.

A seasoned lawyer understands how insurance companies work and will not recommend accepting a low offer. Before presenting an offer, they will calculate all the expenses, including the medical bills, property damage, loss of income, rehabilitation costs, and other expected costs. The objective is to ensure you get a sufficient amount to cover all your current and future expenses.

Present a Statement to the Insurer

Insurance companies usually strive to get a recorded statement from victims right after the accident. This allows them to use the testimony against the victim. They can deny the injury claim or lower the settlement amount later on. Remember, after the accident, you are likely to confuse details, which may not work in your favor when they determine who is at fault.

Avoid giving the insurance company your official statement to ensure no one twists your words later. Get an injury lawyer and narrate the story, then let them handle the statement matters on your behalf.

If you are searching for a reputable personal injury lawyer to offer immediate legal assistance after an accident, consider Frank Penney Injury Lawyers. Our lawyers will ensure you avoid these mistakes and protect your rights until you get compensation. Call us today.