The role of a personal injury attorney is to gather evidence and represent a client in a compensation claim. What may be surprising to many is the fact that most cases never actually make it to court, with both parties benefiting from reaching a settlement. Unfortunately, attorneys are often hindered during these negotiations by small mistakes that were made in the aftermath of the accident. If you are injured on a McKinney road, in a public building or at your workplace, try to avoid the top three personal injury pitfalls.
When you have suffered a personal injury, it can be extremely difficult both physically and mentally to get prepared for a lawsuit. However, there are some very simple steps that you must take in order to be properly compensated for your injuries. Don’t fall for one of these personal injury pitfalls that may impact the amount you receive from a settlement.
3 Personal Injury Claim Mistakes Following an Accident
1. You Don’t Get Checked By The Doctor
When someone has had a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence it’s important not to brush it off. Even if you think the injury is minor, go and get it checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. If you wait and it ends up becoming a serious issue, it could be blamed on events occurring after the accident. Or if you wait a very long time, you may be barred from bringing your case at all.
In addition, make sure to attend every follow-up appointment and adhere to your doctor’s recommendations. A seemingly casual approach to your treatment and recovery could be used against you by an insurance company.
2. You Apologize
If you have been in a car accident, it is common for people to automatically apologize, even if they were not at fault. Do not apologize! Make sure that everyone who needs it gets medical assistance but an apology can be interpreted as accepting fault.
After a claim is made, insurance companies gather statements from everyone involved in the incident, along with other witnesses. Even if the insurance company doesn’t attempt to place the blame on your shoulders, based on the apology, they may argue that you should have a share of liability in the accident.
3. You Don’t Talk To An Attorney
If you have been injured, it is crucial that you obtain the opinion of an experienced personal injury attorney. They would be able to talk you through the process of filing your insurance claim and bringing suit against those who were negligent. Most attorneys provide a free consultation so that you can meet them; ask them about what their case strategy would be, and get a feel if they would be the right fit for your case. The sooner you get a legal advocate on your side, the better off you will be.
After receiving medical attention you should hire a personal injury attorney, when the details of the incident are fresh in your mind.
Experienced Legal Representation From a Personal Injury Attorney
Joe Lucé helps clients secure compensation after an accident. If you have been injured in a car accident, slip and fall incident, or in any other scenario, speak with a dedicated personal injury lawyer today. Call Lucé Law, PC at (972) 632-1300, or request a free legal consultation now.
