The latest available statistics from the CDC show that 24.8 million physician office visits occurred in 2018 for unintentional injuries.
How many of these unintentional injuries turn into personal injury cases?
If you have an injury as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may want to find out more about the claim filing process.
But before filing a personal injury claim, you should know what can hinder your progress or hurt your case. Keep reading to learn five personal injury claim filing mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Thinking You Can’t Afford a Lawyer
Trying to go through this process on your own can be very confusing and overwhelming. The insurance companies know how to take advantage of people so having an attorney in your corner helps you have a fair fight.
There’s no reason to avoid seeking legal counsel. Most lawyers do not get paid unless they win the case so that means no money upfront from you. If they win, they take a portion of the settlement.
Do you need an auto accident attorney? Arrange a consultation with one of our auto accident lawyers.
2. Sharing Information on Social Media
Don’t be fooled into thinking that no one is paying attention to your social media account besides your “friends”. Insurance carriers often use social media to try to dispute an injury claim.
They know that victims of accidents often air their problems looking for support from others. Sharing information here opens your friends up to subpoenas pertaining to the case.
3. Missing Deadlines
When you’re involved in an accident, your life can be turned upside down. Unfortunately, minor errors like a missed deadline can jeopardize your case for compensation.
You have to see a doctor within a certain period of time to get personal injury documents and you also have a claim filing deadline.
4. Sharing Private Details With Others
When you meet with your lawyer anything you share with him or her is protected by attorney/client privilege. If you share information with others about details of the case, the other side might learn of it and subpoena them to testify.
Your communication with friends or family is not protected and could end up hurting your case and your bargaining position.
5. Delaying Medical Treatment
Many types of personal injuries require medical treatment and delaying it can put your health and your personal injury case in jeopardy.
If you delay treatment, it sends a sign that treatment is not really necessary. The insurance company will jump on that and try to disprove your case.
Avoid Claim Filing Mistakes
The best way to avoid claim filing mistakes is to seek legal representation before doing anything. It’s very easy for the insurance company to take advantage of your lack of experience. Talk to your lawyer to get your case on the right track.
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