Avoid These Costly Mistakes When Filing A Personal Injury Case
A personal injury attorney can answer any questions or concerns you may have about the process while helping you avoid some costly mistakes while you’re filing your personal injury case.
Failing To See A Medical Professional
Even with insurance, medical care can be expensive. However, when you actively choose to avoid seeing your doctor following your accident, there can be some serious consequences. Not seeing a medical professional about your injuries can quickly derail your personal injury claim.
You need to have proof of your injuries, and medical professionals keep detailed records that you can use to prove your condition. These also outline past or ongoing treatments, any medication you may have to be on, past and future doctor appointments, and further treatments needed as a result of your injuries.
Discarding Key Evidence
Another costly mistake is throwing away documentation that helps prove the severity of the accident. Never get rid of photos, videos, police statements, police reports, or insurance estimates—all of this evidence will be needed to prove your claim. Without them, you won't have much to go on, and your claim can quickly and easily be denied.
Waiting Too Long
When filing a personal injury claim, it is best to do so as soon as possible after the accident takes place. Every case is going to be different, and the statute of limitations also varies depending on your location. Under Florida's statute of limitations, for example, you have four years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit in Florida's civil courts. Even one day past this timeframe can result in zero compensation for your injuries.
Focusing Only On Physical Damage
You want to avoid focusing only on physical damage. You also need to take a closer look at the emotional damage caused by the accident. Sometimes, you will find that emotional pain is just as harmful as the physical pain you are experiencing.
Failing To Hire An Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes when filing your personal injury claim is failing to hire a personal injury attorney to help you navigate the process from beginning to end. When you are injured as the result of an accident, one of the primary goals is to get better as soon as possible. However, you don't want to dismiss the accident because compensation is going to play a significant role in the healing process. You don't want to have to worry about how you are going to keep up with your medical bills.
An experienced personal injury attorney can represent you in the case and can be the go-between between you and the insurance company. This allows you to put more attention to your recovery.
If you are ready to discuss your case and auto accident in more detail and start your journey toward recovery and compensation, contact your personal injury attorney for more information on the process and the best way to proceed.