Six Mistakes to Avoid in Your Personal Injury Claim

The days and weeks following an accident are stressful and confusing. This can cause people to make mistakes when filing a personal injury claim against the negligent party. It is not because they are careless. It is because they are overwhelmed, injured, and trying to navigate medical treatment, insurance policies, disruption in their work, and legal questions all at the same time.

Fortunately, knowing what the most common mistakes are can help you avoid them. Below, our Tampa personal injury lawyer explains in greater detail.

Missing Important Deadlines

There are more deadlines in personal injury cases than just the statute of limitations. While you must file your claim before the statute of limitations expires, there are other timeframes to understand, as well. These include the requirements to notify your insurer, timelines to collect records, and in some cases, notifying the defendant of the impending lawsuit. If you wait too long, it could result in weaker evidence and unnecessary stress if your case becomes more serious than you first thought.

Failing to Document Your Injuries

The strongest injury claims are backed by extensive documentation. Photos of your injuries, prescriptions, medical receipts, and provider records all indicate how the accident occurred and the losses you sustained. Failing to preserve these records can make it much more difficult to prove your case later on.

Downplaying Your Injuries

Many people tell their doctors that they are ‘fine’ or that the injury ‘is not that bad’ because they do not want to be a burden or be seen as complaining. However, doctors can only document what they see and what they are told. If you minimize the level of pain you are feeling or do not fully describe how your injuries are impacting your work, sleep, and daily life, your medical records may not reflect the full extent of your injuries.

Failing to Document Work Restrictions

If you cannot return to work or you are placed on limited duties, it is also important to ensure that this is also clearly documented. This is the only way to prove your lost wages. This documentation can include work notes, disability slips, and return-to-work releases.

Missing Information

Accident victims sometimes try to simplify things by leaving details out of their case. The truth is that this can create significant problems in the future. Make sure that you fully address any previous treatment you received, your medical history, and ask any questions you have to ensure that you can make informed decisions.

Not Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer in Tampa

Many people think they can easily file a personal injury claim on their own. Unfortunately, filing these claims is rarely easy. At Moore Law, our Tampa personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure no mistakes are made so you obtain the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us today at 813-510-5400 or chat with us online to request a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html