When seeking compensation for a personal injury claim, it’s crucial to be cautious about every step you take. Even a minor error could significantly reduce your the value of your injury settlement. In this post, you will learn four of the biggest mistakes you could make when handling your injury claim, and also bonus tip that can help anyone potentially secure a bigger settlement.
1. Leaving the Scene without Making a Report
The first and foremost mistake made by injury victims is leaving the scene of the accident without making a report. Whether it’s a car accident, slip or trip and fall, or a dog bite, it’s crucial to ensure that the authorities document the incident. Call the police or the relevant authority and make sure a report is generated. If you are injured, wait for the paramedics. By having your injuries and the incident documented, you make sure your side of the story is included, which could strengthen your case.
2. Accepting a Minimal Settlement Offer
Another common mistake made by injury victims is accepting a low settlement offer soon after the accident. I often get calls from potential clients who have been offered a meager amount shortly after their incident. Please do not accept these offers. If the adjuster is suggesting a minimal amount, it’s likely your claim is worth more. Remember, an insurance company’s goal is to minimize payouts. By accepting a low-ball offer, you could be leaving a significant amount of money on the table.
3. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often request recorded statements from injury victims. It’s crucial to understand that you are not legally required to provide one unless potentially it is your own insurance company requesting the statement. The primary reason they request a recorded statement is to find any information that could potentially harm your case. If you ever have to file a lawsuit, they could use your recorded statement against you. Unless contractually obligated, never give a recorded statement to an insurance company.
4. Not Consulting with an Injury Lawyer
One key mistake victims make is not consulting with a personal injury lawyer. The fact is, an injury lawyer can help your case in many ways. While not every case requires hiring a lawyer, it’s always wise to at least consult with one to understand your legal options. If you do consult with a lawyer, ensure that they will be handling your case personally and find out how you can contact them with questions. Also, consider having a consultation with multiple attorneys to find the one you’re most comfortable with.
Bonus Tip: Is The Lawyer Willing To File A Lawsuit
When you consult with a lawyer, ask them if they are willing to file a lawsuit on your behalf if you don’t receive a fair settlement offer. Some law firms do not file lawsuits but recommend settling or pass the client’s case to another lawyer. You want to make sure the attorney you choose is willing to go to court for you if necessary.
Avoid Mistakes That Could Minimize Your Injury Settlement – Contact Us Today!
Remember, the content in this blog post is not a substitute for legal advice. Always consult with a lawyer about your particular situation. If you’ve been injured due to a slip or trip and fall incident, car accident, or dog bite incident in Kentucky, Don’t Wait, Call Tate! We’re here to help you avoid these critical mistakes and guide you towards a fair settlement.