Handling a personal injury case is not an easy process. There are a lot of challenges you will encounter along the way. Here are five important tips on how you can protect yourself against such challenges when going through a personal injury case.
Maintain Records
You need to have enough evidence regarding the accident. Otherwise, the jury will have enough reasons to invalidate your case. Make sure you have all the records, such as the contacts of the witnesses, pictures of the scene, medical bills and car repair receipts.
Avoid Insurance Adjusters
You need to be aware of insurance claim adjusters and avoid them as much as possible. Anything that you say to an adjuster can be misinterpreted and used to invalidate your claim. If you have to communicate with adjusters, be careful about what you say. Avoid discussing with them about what happened before and after the accident or who you think might have been responsible. Do not be misled to think that adjusters will be sympathetic with you and possibly increase the amount of your claim. Their main aim is to find enough grounds to reduce your claim or invalidate it altogether.
Do Not Sign a Release
Never sign any releases or accept the first settlement the insurance company offers. Often, the settlement is for much lower than the amount you deserve. Accepting it can make the insurance company believe you are not serious about your claim. Not to mention, when you sign a release or settlement, you will not be allowed to enter into any future negotiations regarding the accident.
Hire a Lawyer
Before you even consider filing a claim or contacting an insurance company, you may need to hire a personal injury attorney. Professionals, like Townsend, Richard, know that an attorney will evaluate your claim and determine whether or not it can amount to something substantial. He will help you gather evidence, negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company, and convince the jury to rule in your favor if the case goes to trial. Make sure the attorney is experienced and has a good rate of success taking cases to trial.
Seek Medical Attention
In order for a personal injury claim to be valid, you must show that you sustained injuries as a result of the negligence of the other person involved. You can only prove this if you produce a medical report showing that you were treated for your injuries immediately after the accident. So, seek immediate medical attention even if you think your injuries are minor.
Handling a personal injury case means you will be subjected to a lot of pressure and witch-hunt from the insurance adjusters, defendant’s counsel and other parties involved. In order to be safe, get a good personal injury lawyer, seek medical attention, keep records and avoid talking to insurance adjusters.
Author Information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
