When we suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, filing a personal injury lawsuit with the help of our Raleigh, NC personal injury lawyer can help us recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, the legal process can be complex, and making mistakes along the way can hurt our chances of getting the settlement we deserve. To protect our case, we must avoid these common mistakes when filing a personal injury lawsuit.
1. Waiting Too Long To File A Claim
One of the biggest mistakes we can make is delaying the filing of our lawsuit. Every state has a statute of limitations, which is the deadline for taking legal action. If we wait too long, we could lose our right to seek compensation. Even if we are still recovering, it’s essential to consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure we meet all legal deadlines.
2. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
After an accident, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. However, if we don’t seek medical treatment right away, insurance companies may argue that our injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Getting prompt medical care not only protects our health but also provides essential documentation for our case.
3. Failing To Gather Evidence
Strong evidence is crucial in a personal injury case. If possible, we should collect:
- Photos and videos of our injuries, property damage, and the accident scene
- Witness statements and contact information
- Police reports and medical records
If we don’t gather this evidence early on, proving liability can become more difficult later.
4. Talking To Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
Insurance companies often try to settle cases quickly—and for as little money as possible. If we speak to an adjuster without legal representation, we might say something that could be used against us. They may also pressure us into accepting a low settlement before we understand the full extent of our injuries. That’s why it’s best to let our lawyer handle all communication with insurers.
5. Posting About The Case On Social Media
In today’s digital world, it’s tempting to share updates about our accident or injuries on social media. However, insurance companies and defense attorneys can use our posts against us. Even something as simple as a picture of us engaging in daily activities could be used to argue that we aren’t as injured as we claim. To protect our case, we should avoid discussing it online.
6. Not Hiring An Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating a personal injury case on our own can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal deadlines. A skilled personal injury lawyer can protect our rights, negotiate for fair compensation, and take our case to court if necessary. Without proper legal representation, we risk receiving far less than we deserve.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit requires careful attention to detail, and avoiding these common mistakes can help us maximize our compensation. By seeking medical treatment, gathering evidence, avoiding early settlements, and working with an experienced lawyer, we can build a strong case and ensure our legal rights are fully protected. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help.