Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Sometimes, filing a personal injury claim after an accident is the only way you will really receive the compensation you deserve to address medical bills, lost wages, and countless other damages. Even deciding to file a claim can be a big step, but it is important to understand that filing a personal injury claim does not guarantee that you will be successful in that claim. These lawsuits can be complex. Time is of the essence, and even small mistakes on day one can have a huge impact on the success of your case.

An experienced personal injury attorney at Patel Law, PC can help you navigate the legal complexities of your own case and avoid unnecessary pitfalls. This article will introduce readers to some of the most common mistakes that filers often make when seeking compensation in their personal injury claim. While this list is a good start; it only scratches the surface on what you need to know to be successful in your claim. For official legal advice tailored to your own circumstances, speak with an experienced attorney at Patel Law, PC.

Common Mistakes

Some common mistakes that people make when pursuing a personal injury claim include:

Not Reporting the Accident

It can feel scary right after an accident. It is understandable that you just want the encounter to be over and get out of there without taking further steps. However, failing to timely report an accident can make it difficult to prove your claim. Police or incident reports can be key evidence, objectively detailing what happened that day.

Admitting Fault or Making Incriminating Statements

Insurance companies often use a person apologizing or admitting fault as a way to reduce compensation, or attempt to deny it outright.

It is wise to avoid talking about feelings when speaking with police, insurance, etc. Stick to the facts of what happened.

Failing to Gather Evidence

In personal injury cases evidence begins to disappear very quickly. In a car accident, for example, other people who were driving by who could act as witnesses, photos of the scene of the accident, and documentation of the road conditions at the time; all of these pieces of evidence might be preserved if you act quickly after an accident. But they may become impossible to collect if you do not act quickly, before the witnesses drive away and the scene is cleaned up. Your case will not be as strong if you rely only on yourself and your memory. Document the scene as thoroughly as possible. This includes photographs of the accident site, injuries, and any damage there. Collect contact information from witnesses so they can be called upon later. And keep documented evidence of all that comes next.

Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Delaying medical treatment can be harmful to your health and your claim. Not all injuries are readily apparent but can worsen over time. Delaying treatment can lead to arguments against you that the accident was not at fault for your injury. Or that the injury is not that severe, since you waited so long to report it.

Seek medical assessment after an accident. Follow the doctor’s orders and keep detailed records of your visits and treatment.

Contact Patel Law, PC

An experienced Urbana personal injury attorney at Patel Law, PC can guide you through each step of your case. Do not allow avoidable mistakes to derail your case. Contact our Illinois personal injury team today.

Sources:

nbcchicago.com/news/local/serious-rollover-crash-closes-all-lanes-michigan-avenue-during-morning-rush-hour/3822668/

abc7chicago.com/post/driver-killed-another-injured-wrong-car-crash-355-des-plaines-river-lemont-illinois-state-police-say/17632952/