Common Mistakes To Avoid In Personal Injury Claims

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Making informed legal decisions is key to preventing errors that could cost you your claim.

It can be overwhelming to know what to do following an accident. With so many factors to contend with, sometimes the last thing on your mind is the success of a personal injury claim. However, taking proactive steps to minimize mistakes could result in a considerable payoff in the end – all it takes is a little consideration…

Every personal injury case is different, but one thing remains the same: all aspects of your claim are subject to legal scrutiny. For this reason, navigating the aftermath of an injury with awareness and understanding is critical. Even the slightest misstep could derail your claim, resulting in more legal headaches, a longer timeline, and even denial.

Here are the most common mistakes you should avoid if you intend to pursue a personal injury claim in Texas:

Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

One of the most significant errors victims make is delaying medical treatment. Even if the injuries seem minor right off the bat, symptoms may worsen over time. In addition to health dangers, this also weakens the credibility of the claim. Insurance companies can use delayed medical treatment as a counter argument, saying the injury was not serious or unrelated to the accident. Obtaining immediate medical help not only ensures injuries are documented but also establishes a crucial link between the accident and the claimed condition.

Not Preserving Evidence At The Scene

In the moments after an accident, gathering evidence is critical. Failure to do so can leave you at a disadvantage when proving liability and/or the extent of your damages. Photos of the accident site, injuries, and property damage can be very helpful – as can witness information and police reports.

Giving Recorded Statements To Insurance Adjusters

While insurance adjusters may seem helpful, their primary goal is to minimize the value of your claim. Providing a recorded statement to insurance personnel without speaking with an attorney can lead to unintentional admissions or misstatements that could harm your case. This is because adjusters may use your words out of context to dispute their liability or to downplay the extent of your injuries.

Settling Too Quickly Without Understanding The Long-Term Repercussions

While you may be pressured to quickly settle after an accident, it is not advised to make any decisions before consulting with a personal injury lawyer. Medical bills and lost wages may be piling up, but accepting a settlement too soon can prevent you from securing compensation for future or ongoing expenses. Once you choose to settle, you also forfeit your right to pursue additional claims – even if new medical difficulties arise. Always evaluate the full extent of your damages with a legal professional before agreeing to any offers.

Not Filing A Claim Within The Texas Statute Of Limitations

Texas law has strict deadlines for filing a personal injury statement of claim. In general, victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in the door closing on potential compensation. It is vital to act promptly to ensure the case is filed on time while also preserving essential evidence that may degrade over time.

Posting About The Accident On Social Media

Social media activity can be used against claimants by opposing counsel or insurers. That’s why keeping the details of your accident to yourself is highly recommended during the initial stages of your claim. While you may be sharing true details about the incident, this may be twisted in the insurer’s favor to lower the value of your claim.

Not Hiring A Qualified Personal Injury Attorney

The value of professional legal representation in navigating Texas laws and negotiating with insurers cannot be overstated. Each and every step of the claims process contains a unique set of legal challenges. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements on your behalf, a lawyer’s oversight is foundational to obtaining the best possible outcome.

Speak To An Experienced Personal Injury Claims Attorney Today

Your search for a “personal injury lawyer near me” ends here. Call Dreyer & Mazaheri, PLLC today to have your questions answered.

Our qualified team is here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and ensure you secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t let preventable mistakes jeopardize your claim – reach out to our office to get started with a proactive legal plan.

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Dreyer & Mazaheri, PLLC is a boutique personal injury law firm dedicated to your success. To schedule an initial consultation with us, call (210) 239-9420 or click here today!