There are certain things that you should avoid when navigating a personal injury claim.
Here are a few of the most common:
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Receiving any offer of compensation following an injury is tempting, especially if you have been unable to work. But, settling too soon often does not give you enough time to build your case and demonstrate your full losses.
Not Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Not hiring a lawyer who understands the laws can be a big mistake. Not only will your personal injury lawyer help you navigate your case, ensuring that you stay on the timeline, but they will also negotiate for a higher settlement.
Choosing Any Personal Injury Lawyer
Not all personal injury lawyers are the same. It is important to choose one that is familiar with New Jersey’s laws and that you trust to represent you with your best interests in mind.
Not Asking Any Questions That You Might Have
You pay your personal injury lawyer to not only guide you through the claims process, but to also answer any and all questions that you might have. It’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a “silly” question; the more information you have, the more confident you’ll feel about moving forward. Don’t avoid asking your lawyer questions; they are there to guide you through this process and understand that this may be your first time dealing with such a situation.
Failing to Calculate all your costs
Some costs are obvious, like the money you spend on medical bills. However, it is also important to consider other costs like your lost wages or property damages.
Failing to Collect Evidence
Evidence is important in building your personal injury case. Some evidence, like medical records, can be collected later. But, other pieces of evidence, like photographs, are time-sensitive.
Not Receiving Immediate Medical Care
Receiving immediate medical care is important for your safety and well-being, while also demonstrating the severity of your injury. Adrenaline often masks the severity of injuries, meaning that unless you seek medical attention, you might not know that anything is wrong.
Not Factoring in Psychological Damages
In addition to the economic costs you suffer from a personal injury, it is also necessary to consider how the accident has impacted you psychologically.
Failing to Meet New Jersey’s Statute of Limitations
It doesn’t matter how solid your case is, if you don’t stay within the state’s statute of limitations, you may not receive any compensation.
Read more: Questions and Answers About Your Personal Injury Case
Posting Information Online
It might seem harmless to post information about your injury online, but anything posted publicly can be used against you.
Signing Away Your Legal Rights
Insurance companies will often request that you sign documents. However, it is best to have your lawyer evaluate these documents first so that you don’t sign away your legal rights.
Failing to Follow Doctor’s Orders
Failing to follow your medical provider’s orders could raise suspicions from the other party. They might claim that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Not Considering or Understanding Liens
Liens will allow you to receive medical care before receiving compensation. However, it is important to understand what they mean to your personal injury case.
Trusting the Insurance Company
It is also important to keep in mind that the insurance company will often protect their own interests. Hire your own representation.
Hiring a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer is one of the best ways to avoid making these common mistakes. Your lawyer will help you build your case, while ensuring that your legal rights are protected.
Contact an Atlantic City Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a personal injury in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff represent clients injured in Egg Harbor, Atlantic City, Trenton, Camden, and throughout New Jersey. Call (609) 601-2233 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 605 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221, as well as an office in Philadelphia, PA.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.