If filing a personal injury claim after a car accident, slip or fall incident, dog bite, or something else, you don’t want to do anything that possibly derails your hopes for compensation.
Millions of Americans every year suffer injuries that require medical attention and the assistance of personal injury lawyers. Some personal injuries are worse than others. Depending on the particulars, you might have to take time off work. But having to pay for treatment out of pocket will only make a bad situation worse. That’s one reason to retain the services of a good personal injury lawyer sooner rather than later.
The sooner they move forward with a claim on your behalf, the sooner you’ll get compensation for lost salary, pain and suffering, ongoing medical care, and whatever else you qualify for
One thing you’ll want to keep in mind is the importance of following your lawyer’s advice. Some mistakes can ruin a personal injury case that otherwise would have been successful.
Consider these three things that can ruin your personal injury case if you’re not careful.
1. Exaggerating the Extent of Your Injuries
While it shouldn’t have to be said, it’s important to note that exaggerating injuries or making them up outright is wrong. If it’s proved that you filed a claim under a false pretense, you could face serious fraud charges.
That’s one reason it’s essential to see a doctor after an injury. You need to get checked out, undergo exams, and get a medical file started. Your lawyer will need the medical records to build your personal injury claim.
Unscrupulous people out there who game the system factor into why insurance companies are so relentless when challenging claims. Dishonest people will take time off work for “back injuries” but post pictures online that show them engaging in activities that would be virtually impossible for people with severe injuries.
When you follow your doctor’s advice and see whatever specialists they recommend, you’ll have proof of the injuries you claim.
2. Failing to Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan
Pursuing a claim without getting treatment for your injuries is sure to get you into trouble. If you’re injured in, say, a vehicle collision, the injuries will worsen if you don’t get treatment. So, ensure you follow the treatment plan devised by your healthcare provider.
Failing to do so will work against you since the insurance company will argue that your injuries wouldn’t be as serious as they are if you had followed a treatment plan. They may double down, moreover, and say that your choice not to take advantage of treatment could mean the injuries aren’t severe.
3. Waiting Too Long to File a Personal Injury Claim
Yet another mistake that could hurt your odds of success is waiting too long to file a claim. The statute of limitations will differ depending on the state you’re in.
You don’t want to face a scenario where you’re unable to file a personal injury claim simply because you waited too long.
That would make your situation even worse since you won’t be able to get the compensation you need and deserve.
When you hire a lawyer on time, you won’t have to worry about filing a claim on time. Your personal injury lawyer will ensure that the process is kicked off well before the deadline.
The personal injury claim process can take a long time, but getting it started as soon as possible will mean crossing the finish line faster than if you drag your feet and delay a filing. A good lawyer will help you navigate the process and obtain the compensation you need after an accident.
