5 Common Mistakes People Make After Being Injured
No one goes to work thinking they’ll slip on a wet floor and get injured, or goes for a long drive expecting to get hit by another driver. When you’re involved in an accident, a sense of panic can quickly settle in, and it can be difficult to know what to do. Many people make mistakes, which reduces their chances of holding the negligent party responsible. Here’s a closer look at five common mistakes people make after being injured and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor and you’re lucky enough to walk on your own, not seeking medical attention is a huge mistake. Many times, adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms of a serious injury, such as whiplash, concussion, and internal bleeding. People feel completely fine after an accident, but symptoms can worsen over time. Therefore, it is always recommended to seek emergency care after an accident. A doctor will run a complete body work-up. This will also strengthen your case if you decide to file a claim.
2. Failing to Report the Injury
Another common mistake people make is failing to report the injury. If you’ve been injured at work, tell your supervisor immediately and ask them about the necessary protocol. This could be filling out a report. For road accidents, call the local authorities. You should also look into state-specific regulations. For instance, in California, you must report the incident to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the accident if the damage exceeds $1,000. Reporting the incident will keep you out of trouble in the long run.
3. Not Taking Pictures
Documenting your injuries is important, especially if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. Take photos and videos of your injuries and any unsafe conditions. This could be a wet floor or an uneven pavement. This evidence would also support your personal injury claim. A personal injury lawyer in Long Beach will assess the value of your claim based on the evidence available. Work with reputable personal injury lawyers, such as those at May Firm, for dedicated support.
4. Speaking Too Freely With Insurance Companies
Calling your insurance company after suffering an injury is necessary. But many people end up sharing too much information about the incident. Insurance companies have dedicated agents to talk to victims. Since the company wants to reduce the compensation amount, the agent is tasked with convincing you of a low offer. They might get you to make statements that can be used to reduce your claim. Avoid admitting fault when talking to an insurance agent. Never give a written statement without consulting your personal injury lawyer.
5. Waiting Too Long to Take Action
Lastly, people wait too long before consulting an attorney and taking action. The sooner you file a claim, the higher your chances of getting fair compensation. Moreover, personal injury cases have a predetermined statute of limitations and a timeline within which you need to file your claim. Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to avoid making mistakes.
Conclusion
Accidents are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Avoiding these common missteps like delaying medical care, skipping reports, or oversharing with insurers can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal outcome. By staying informed, documenting everything, and seeking timely legal guidance, you position yourself to hold the negligent party accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. In moments of crisis, clarity and action are your strongest allies.
