Personal Injury Cases
After suffering an injury, pursuing a personal injury case is often the path to securing financial support for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. While the process may seem straightforward, certain mistakes can weaken a claim and reduce the compensation available. By knowing what to avoid, we can better protect our rights and strengthen our case.
Waiting Too Long To File
One of the most damaging mistakes is delaying legal action. Every state has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a claim. If we wait too long, we risk losing the ability to recover compensation altogether. Acting quickly allows us to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and meet the legal deadlines required for the case to move forward.
Not Seeking Immediate Medical Treatment
Some people try to tough it out after an accident, only to discover later that their injuries are more serious than expected. Failing to get medical care right away can hurt both our health and our case. Insurance companies may argue that the injuries were not connected to the accident if there is a gap in treatment. Seeking care promptly creates a medical record that links the injury directly to the incident.
Giving Recorded Statements Too Early
Insurance companies often reach out shortly after an accident and request recorded statements. While this may seem harmless, anything we say can be used against us later. Without fully knowing the extent of our injuries or damages, it is risky to provide details. Waiting until we have legal guidance helps us avoid making statements that could limit our recovery.
Accepting A Settlement Too Quickly
It can be tempting to accept the first settlement offer, especially when bills are piling up. However, early offers are often much lower than what a case is truly worth. Once we accept a settlement, we cannot go back and ask for more, even if future medical care becomes necessary. Taking time to fully evaluate damages is essential before agreeing to any payout.
Overlooking Non-Economic Damages
When calculating damages, many people focus only on medical bills and lost wages. While those are critical, personal injury cases can also include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Ignoring these non-economic damages leaves us with less than what we deserve for the full impact of an injury.
Posting On Social Media
What we share online can unexpectedly affect a personal injury case. Pictures, comments, or even check-ins may be used by the other side to question the seriousness of our injuries. It is best to limit social media activity during the case and avoid sharing anything that could be misinterpreted.
Moving Forward With Legal Support
Mistakes during a personal injury case can be costly. By acting quickly, seeking proper medical care, and avoiding early settlements or careless statements, we strengthen our position. Working with a Seattle, WA personal injury lawyer gives us the guidance to avoid these pitfalls and pursue fair compensation. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we are dedicated to standing by clients through every step of the process.
If you have been injured and are considering a personal injury case, contact us today. We can review your situation and discuss how to move forward in the best way possible.
