The Bucks County Area’s Trusted Personal Injury Firm
Filing a personal injury claim can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial stress of an accident. At Gregg Durlofsky Law Offices, we help clients navigate the personal injury claim process to maximize their chances of receiving fair compensation. However, even with expert legal help, certain mistakes can jeopardize your claim. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when filing a personal injury claim.
1. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
One of the biggest mistakes people make is delaying medical treatment after an accident. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious if left untreated. Moreover, medical records serve as critical evidence in your claim, linking your injuries directly to the accident. Delaying medical treatment not only puts your health at risk but can also give the insurance company an opportunity to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or are less severe than claimed.
2. Failing to Gather Evidence
Evidence is the backbone of any successful personal injury claim. After an accident, it’s crucial to collect as much evidence as possible to support your case. This includes photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. If there were witnesses, make sure to get their contact information. Additionally, keeping detailed records of your medical treatments, missed workdays, and other financial losses can strengthen your claim. Without solid evidence, proving liability and the extent of your damages becomes much more difficult.
3. Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Representation
After an accident, you may be contacted by the other party’s insurance company. It’s important to remember that insurance adjusters are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts, which can sometimes result in lowball settlement offers or attempts to get you to admit fault. Avoid giving recorded statements or discussing the details of your accident with the insurance company without first consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to have your lawyer handle communications.
4. Accepting a Settlement Too Quickly
It’s natural to want to resolve your claim as quickly as possible, especially if you’re facing medical bills or lost wages. However, accepting a settlement too soon can leave you with inadequate compensation. Many injuries take time to fully manifest, and you may not know the full extent of your medical expenses or the impact on your quality of life right away. Before accepting any offer from the insurance company, it’s important to consult with your attorney to ensure that the settlement covers all your current and future needs.
5. Not Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating the personal injury claim process on your own can be overwhelming, and mistakes can significantly reduce your chances of receiving fair compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney, like those at Gregg Durlofsky Law Offices, can help you avoid common pitfalls and build a strong case. They will handle negotiations with the insurance company, gather necessary evidence, and ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly.
6. Missing Filing Deadlines
Each state has a statute of limitations, which is the legal deadline for filing a personal injury claim. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can result in your case being dismissed, regardless of the strength of your claim. To avoid this, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible after the accident.
Contact The Bucks County Area’s Top Personal Injury Firm Today
Filing a personal injury claim can be a complicated process, but avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome. At Gregg Durlofsky Law Offices, we’re dedicated to helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and avoid these potential pitfalls.