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June 21, 2021

9 Mistakes Personal Injury Victims Make

If you get injured due to the negligence of others, you have the right to seek compensation. However, how you respond to the situation can significantly affect the outcome of your personal injury claim. To help with this, we've listed some common mistakes personal injury victims make that prevent them from receiving the fair compensation they deserve.
9 Mistakes Personal Injury Victims Make

1. Admitting Fault.

Right after an accident, it might not be entirely clear who is at fault. That's why it's common for most victims to take partial responsibility by apologizing. Unfortunately, although your intention is good, apologizing or admitting fault might hurt your claim. It's better off not to say anything unless it's to exchange information and insurance details.

2. Not Calling the Police.

Having police at the scene can significantly help gather evidence and witness statements—all of which are important in building your personal injury claim.

3. Failing to Gather Evidence.

Don't wait for the police to gather the evidence for you. If you are able, collect necessary data such as photos and videos of the accident scene while it's still untouched. Your proof might also include doctor's notes, witnesses' contact details, and any other information that you think will help your claim.

4. Talking to the Other Party's Insurer.

In many cases, the other party's insurance company might contact you directly after the accident. But keep in mind that everything you say or do may be used against you. Therefore, don't talk to the other party's insurer and direct all communication about your case to your lawyer instead.
9 Mistakes Personal Injury Victims Make

5. Delaying or Skipping Proper Medical Attention.

In a personal injury case, delaying or skipping medical attention may hurt your claim. Regardless of how minor you think your injuries are, have them checked by a doctor. Besides getting your injuries treated, a qualified medical professional can give you a complete medical report. This medical report is vital evidence in your personal injury claim.

6. Accepting the First Settlement Offer.

Due to stress, trauma, and possibly a persistent insurer, many accident victims make the mistake of accepting the first settlement offer. In most cases, the first settlement offer is significantly lower than what the victim could possibly receive as compensation. Accepting this offer immediately might leave you unable to pay for future medical bills. Always speak with a personal injury lawyer first before making any decision. A lawyer may be able to negotiate a better and fairer compensation for you.

7. Not Hiring a Qualified Personal Injury Lawyer From the Start.

The other party's insurer might trick you into accepting a lower settlement offer or saying things that can be used against your claim. The best way to avoid any of this is by hiring a qualified personal injury lawyer from the start. Another benefit of having a lawyer is that they can file the claim while you are recuperating.

8. Sabotaging Your Own Claim.

Many people nowadays post anything about their lives on social media. But if you're considering filing a personal injury claim, you should resist posting anything about the accident on social media. It's not even advisable to discuss the accident with your friends and relatives. Doing so can reveal potential issues that can undermine your own claim.

9. Hiding Facts From Your Lawyer.

Your personal injury lawyer is your teammate. Therefore it's crucial to be honest with your lawyer at all times. Letting your attorney know all the facts, whether good or bad, allows them to present your case in the best possible light.
These are just some of the mistakes that personal injury victims make, which negatively affect their claims. If you've been injured in the Tampa Bay Area due to the negligence of others, call attorney John C. Murrow today at (813) 999-4950. You can also fill in your details here to get a FREE evaluation.

Disclaimer

The blog published by John C. Murrow Law is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter. By viewing blog posts, the reader understands there is no attorney-client relationship between the reader and the blog publisher. The blog should not be used as a substitute for legal advice from a licensed professional attorney, and readers are urged to consult their own legal counsel on any specific legal questions concerning a specific situation.

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