Unfortunately, some missteps can make it harder to secure the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, missed income, or long-term effects of an injury, avoiding common pitfalls can have a significant impact on your case. Our friends at Cohen & Cohen discuss filing a personal injury claim after an accident is a critical step toward recovering from your losses.
Missing Deadlines Can Hurt Your Claim
Timing is everything when filing a personal injury claim. Every state has a statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for when a claim must be filed. Missing this deadline can mean losing the opportunity to recover damages entirely.
This timeframe varies depending on where you are and the type of case, but it’s not always as simple as it seems. For instance, if a government entity is involved, shorter deadlines may apply.
Acting quickly not only protects your claim but also helps preserve evidence. Memories fade, and documents or witnesses might become harder to locate as time passes. Seeking legal advice early can help clarify the deadlines and steps specific to your case.
Accepting The First Settlement Offer
It’s common for insurance companies to offer quick settlements after an accident. While these offers might seem like a welcome relief, especially if you’re facing medical bills or lost wages, they are often far lower than what your claim is worth.
We’ve seen situations where people accept initial offers, only to realize later that the money doesn’t cover all their costs. Injuries sometimes have long-term consequences that aren’t immediately apparent, like ongoing treatment or reduced earning capacity. Once you’ve accepted a settlement, you typically can’t go back and ask for more.
A personal injury lawyer can evaluate the true value of your claim, taking into account both immediate and future expenses. By having someone negotiate on your behalf, you’re less likely to feel pressured into settling for less than you deserve.
Incomplete Documentation Of Injuries And Expenses
Proper documentation is one of the most important aspects of a personal injury claim. Without clear records, it’s challenging to demonstrate the full extent of your injuries and related expenses.
This includes medical records, bills, and receipts for treatments, prescriptions, or medical devices. But documentation shouldn’t stop there. Photos of your injuries, detailed notes about how your life has been affected, and even journal entries about your recovery can add depth to your claim.
For example, if you’ve had to miss family events or can no longer participate in activities you once loved, those losses are real and deserve recognition. Failing to provide this evidence can weaken your case, making it harder to show how your injuries have impacted your life.
Moving Forward With Confidence
Filing a personal injury claim is a serious undertaking, and avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference. As a personal injury lawyer, we’ve seen how the right approach can help clients recover not just compensation but also a sense of stability after an accident. By paying attention to deadlines, evaluating settlement offers carefully, and keeping thorough records, you’re giving yourself the best chance to move forward. If you’re considering a claim, take the time to do it right—it’s a step toward rebuilding and finding relief after a challenging time.