5 Tips to Avoid Making Mistakes in Your Personal Injury Claim

When you find yourself injured due to someone else’s negligence, it seems like everyone has a list of things you shouldn’t do – “don’t say this,” “don’t sign that,” “don’t post on social media.” But in the midst of dealing with the physical and emotional impact of the accident, how do you ensure that you’re actually setting yourself up for success? Avoiding mistakes is easier said than done, especially when there are hundreds of things commanding your attention. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, we understand the challenges you face, and we have been helping individuals like you build strong personal injury cases for decades. Drawing on our experience, we’re here to share a list of the top things you should do to avoid making common mistakes that can weaken your claim and maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.   

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

After an accident, you should seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t seem hurt. Not only is this important for your well-being, but it also establishes a record of your injuries and their severity. Delaying medical treatment or not following recommended care can weaken your claim, as the opposing party may argue that you weren’t truly injured or that the incident in question did not cause your injuries.

2. Keep Detailed Records  

Throughout the process of filing a personal injury claim, it’s essential to keep thorough records of everything related to the incident. This includes any medical bills, records, reports, and receipts for any expenses related to your injuries (such as medication or medical equipment). Additionally, keep a record of any missed work due to your injuries and the corresponding loss of income. These records will serve as evidence of the financial impact of your injuries and can help strengthen your claim for compensation.

3. Be Mindful of What You Say

It’s important to be cautious about what you say after an accident, especially when talking to insurance adjusters or representatives from the opposing party. Just make sure to stick to the facts when speaking about the accident. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s okay to avoid discussing details until you’ve consulted a personal injury attorney.

4. Delete Your Social Media Entirely

People will often tell you not to post or share anything about your accident on social media—and they’re right. But the truth is, the best way to protect yourself is to delete your social media entirely. Insurance companies and opposing parties will comb through your profiles, looking for anything to use against you, whether it’s a photo, comment, or post that contradicts your claims. Even seemingly harmless activity can be twisted to hurt your case. Deleting your accounts entirely ensures there’s nothing for them to find and gives you the best protection possible.

5. Hire an Attorney ASAP

Dealing with insurance companies and handling the legal process on your own can feel daunting, especially when you’re focused on recovering from an injury. Working with an attorney early on can take some of the pressure off and help you avoid missteps that might harm your case. A skilled attorney brings the experience and tools needed to advocate for you and seek the compensation you’re entitled to.

Protect Your Claim, Protect Your Future

Filing a personal injury claim is not something to take lightly. It can have significant implications for your current and future financial well-being, as well as your physical and emotional recovery. By following these tips, you can protect yourself from common mistakes that could harm your case and increase your chances of obtaining adequate compensation. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, we are dedicated to helping individuals like you get justice for the harm you’ve suffered. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you on your journey toward recovery.