When you are injured due to the negligence of another in Missouri, it would seem that filing a personal injury claim would be quite easy. In most cases, things turn out to be much more complicated than they appear. The decisions you make following an accident can significantly change the entire direction of your case.
It is vital to learn about the things you can do after an accident in Missouri, which might ultimately weaken your position and decrease your chances of receiving fair compensation.
To deal with the challenges that arise, it helps to consult experienced Missouri personal injury attorneys. These legal professionals will help you navigate the puzzling maze of laws and will save you from a lot of mistakes that accident victims generally commit.
Let’s look at some of those mistakes that you should avoid when you’re a plaintiff in a personal injury case.
Delayed Medical Attention
One of the worst things you can do after an accident is to delay getting medical treatment. You may feel fine immediately after an accident. This is because of the adrenaline that is released in high-stress incidents. The problem is that adrenaline will mask the symptoms of some injuries.
Delaying a doctor’s appointment may lead to the injury getting worse. It also provides the insurance company with an excuse to claim that your injuries are not serious or linked to the accident.
After any type of accident, seek a doctor as quickly as possible. Follow their recommendations and attend all appointments. This will give a crystal-clear and concise record of your injury and, at the same time, show that you are serious about your health.
Sharing Too Much on Social Media
Sharing things on social media is common in today’s connected world. However, when it comes to personal injury cases, social media can be a minefield. Insurance companies usually investigate the social media accounts of victims to find something they can use against them.
A status update about having a fun day could be taken out of context to argue that your injuries aren’t that serious. Even a status update saying “I’m fine” intended to let friends and family know you’re safe could be used against you. The opposing party might argue that you downplayed the seriousness of your injuries. It is best that you do not use social media at all while your matter is in litigation.
Giving a Recorded Statement Without Talking to a Lawyer
Most insurance adjusters will ask for a recorded statement within days or even hours after an accident. They may say this is just a formality; however, it is a potentially dangerous scenario. Anything you say can be used in an effort to minimize your claim or deny it altogether.
You’re not required to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company. It’s best to talk to a lawyer before giving any statements about the accident or your injuries.
Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies will typically make a settlement offer immediately after an accident. They’re hoping that you’ll accept it well before you really know what your injuries or damages may be. An offer made too early is generally well below what your case is worth.
The worst mistake you can make is hastily accepting an offer, particularly if you are still under treatment. The fact is that, once you agree on a settlement, you cannot go back and ask for more compensation even if your injuries worsen over time.
Trying to Handle It All Yourself
Personal injury cases are quite complicated. There are various deadlines that need to be met, numerous forms to be filed, and evidence to be gathered. Trying to handle all this while recovering from your injuries can be overwhelming. It is easy to make a mistake that can hurt your case.
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney will make all the difference. They can handle all the legal details as one concentrates on their recovery. They also know how to build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and win fair compensation.
Final Thoughts
Navigating a personal injury case requires careful attention and understanding of the potential pitfalls that may harm your claim. Avoiding these common mistakes will help protect your rights and help increase your chances of getting fair compensation.
Remember, when you feel confused regarding what to do next, always consult your lawyer so that they may guide you through the process.