How many times have you read testimonials and accounts of personal injury victims who did not receive any damage compensation? Legal procedures take time and money, which means a failed lawsuit can be a futile effort and an expensive affair. To save on legal expenses, many people try to get the job done by themselves, which is a tedious task. Filing for damages, especially against notable establishments and personalities, can be a downward slope if you’re not careful.
Such a lawsuit requires organization, documentation, and protocol- things that not every layman is a professional at. Personal injury cases are often lost due to slip-ups on the plaintiff’s part, due to which they may suffer monetarily and emotionally.
This article with help you understand know every mistake to avoid as a victim of a personal injury if you wish to win a lawsuit. Mentioned below are seven of the most common error, as observed by litigation experts. Without any delay, let’s get started!
Signing Documents or Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Your Lawyer:
One of the most significant mistakes that personal injury plaintiffs make is not consulting with your legal representative when signing important documents or speaking to insurance companies. The insuring company has a team of lawyers whose job is to protect their interests, not yours. If phrased unfavorably, any statement made by you or any document signed could prove to be a legal disadvantage. This can also limit your ability to seek compensation later. Before signing anything or speaking to anyone, consult your lawyer.
Hiring the Wrong Lawyer:
Hiring the wrong lawyer can break your case before you begin building it. Not all lawyers are as experienced or well-connected. For instance, understanding the events of a salon accident where professionals led to the permanent damage of a customer’s hair requires empathy and industry knowledge. Not only do such hair relaxant accidents cause irreversible damage to the health of a person with probable diseases like cancer, but can also create emotional trauma. Make sure you choose a hair relaxer victims’ law firm that has experience with such cases and who is willing to take your case to trial if necessary. Do your research, read reviews, and ask for referrals.
Admitting Fault to Third Parties Despite Contradictory Evidence:
Admitting fault to third parties, even when the evidence is contradictory, can have a negative effect on your verdict. Many people are prone to apologizing, even when they are not at fault. Apologies are also considered an admission of guilt, which can turn the tides against you. Even if you feel at fault, do not admit it to anyone. Instead, let the evidence speak for itself.
Not Seeking Medical Care on Time:
Not seeking medical care on time is another mistake that personal injury plaintiffs make. To avoid the off-chance of minor injuries turning critical, seek medical care immediately. Delaying medical care can be used against you in court, and it can also harm your health. Moreover, seeking medical care creates a record of your injuries. You can use them as documented evidence in court to show the extent of damage suffered.
Not Reporting Medical Negligence or Malpractice:
If you suspect that you have been the victim of medical negligence or malpractice but don’t report it, your odds of winning the case thin. Since the judge assesses the victim’s efforts in ensuring they sought help in the appropriate way, not reporting medical negligence also puts you at a disadvantage. Failing to report medical negligence or malpractice can harm your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.
Not Gathering Detailed Evidence:
Not gathering detailed evidence is the quickest way for the defendant to win the lawsuit. Collecting evidence in the most unadulterated form is a complex and time-consuming task best left to your lawyer. Take photographs, record statements from witnesses, and keep a detailed record of your medical treatment. Without tampering with any evidence, submit them to your legal representative so that they can create a report.
Failure to Document the Case Properly:
Keep a detailed record of all communications with the defendant for reference. The cleaner your documentation, the better it is for your lawyer to help you. Using official channels to speak to parties like the insurance company, journalists, as well as the lawyers of the defendant will help you set a trail. It would also help to preserve all the receipts and bills related to your injuries. If required, these can be furnished as evidence in court.
Final Word:
Filing a personal injury lawsuit can be a stressful and complicated process many dread. However, you can build a strong case when you avoid making the abovementioned mistakes. Always consult your lawyer before signing anything or speaking to anyone; choose a lawyer with experience!
If you can’t find a good personal injury lawyer by yourself, take the help of an agency or get references from your contacts who may have worked with legal professionals. Hiring the right lawyer can take some time, but pays off in the long run. If you found helpful insights in our article today, check out our editorial section to learn more about lawsuits and everything in between. We hope you emerge victorious!
