Filing a personal injury (PI) claim can help you get compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress after an accident. But the truth is, many people make simple mistakes that can seriously hurt their chances of winning a fair settlement.
The steps you take right after the accident matter a lot. Working with the top law firms, like Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., can make a big difference in your case. They can help injury victims get the compensation they deserve, even in difficult situations.
Here are five mistakes that can have a severe impact on your personal injury claim.
Delaying Medical Treatment
After an accident, some injuries might not show up right away. You may feel fine at first, but symptoms like pain or dizziness can appear hours or even days later. If you wait too long to see a doctor, insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
Getting medical help immediately not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that supports your PI claim. It’s better to be safe and get checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Not Seeking Legal Representation
Many people try to handle their injury claims alone, thinking they’ll save money. But this is often a big mistake. Without legal help, you may end up settling for less than what you deserve.
In fact, a study by the Insurance Research Council found that injury victims who had legal representation received 3.5 times more money on average than those who didn’t have a lawyer. These professionals have the experience and knowledge to deal with insurance companies, collect the right evidence, and make sure your case is strong from start to finish.
Not Reporting the Accident
Failing to report an accident is another common mistake. Whether it’s a car crash or a slip and fall, it’s important to inform the police, your employer, or the property owner immediately. A written report helps prove that the incident happened and provides important details. If you don’t report the accident, it may be harder to prove your case later. Insurance companies could use that as a reason to deny your claim.
Posting on Social Media
It might seem harmless to post a selfie or update your friends about your day, but doing so after an accident can hurt your PI case. Insurance companies often check your social media accounts for any posts that might prove you’re not as injured as you claim.
Even a photo of you smiling at a party could be used against you. The best thing to do is avoid posting anything related to your accident, injuries, or personal life until your case is resolved.
Delaying Legal Action
Every state has a time limit for filing a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations is usually between two and four years from the date of the accident. If you wait too long, you may lose your chance to take legal action completely. It’s smart to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. They’ll help you file your claim on time and gather all the necessary documents to build your case.
Conclusion
It’s important to handle your case the right way from the beginning. Certain mistakes can seriously damage your personal injury case. These are simple errors, but they can cost you the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, having a legal team by your side can help you avoid these mistakes and get the justice you need.
