Filing a personal injury claim after a car accident? Avoid these 4 common mistakes

Most of life’s biggest events are unexpected, especially the ones you didn’t want. Like being in a car accident that wasn’t your fault. When you’re injured due to the negligence of someone else it can feel like the whole world is against you. However, help is at hand. Choosing to file a personal injury claim means that you’ll be in touch with an attorney who’ll get you the monetary result you want, the support you need through the case itself and someone who’ll have your best interests at heart – if you’re looking for a car accident attorney in Phoenix then click the link for more information.

If you’ve never filed a claim before then the whole process can seem a little daunting. Believe it or not, there are some common mistakes that claimants make which can either add to their experience or even hinder their case. Before you get in touch with an attorney, check out these 4 common mistakes.

Assuming that the process will be easy

No matter how good your lawyer is, personal injury cases are rarely straightforward and over quickly. However, it’s arguable that road traffic accidents are potentially the simplest of all personal injury cases (again this depends on the complexity of the case). You should think long and hard about filing a claim and it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly. Start by writing down the pros and cons of filing and get some no obligation legal advice.

Failing to preserve evidence

Ok, so we’re not talking CSI here, however evidence in a civil case is just as important and powerful as it is in a criminal case. Evidence including medical reports, photographs of the scene and the accident itself, witness information and statements, police reports, and information of the other party are all crucial elements that can help you build your case. Without them, your lawyer’s job is now 10 times harder.

Assuming that any lawyer will do

The world of law is a confusing and complex one, with varying fields of expertise, divisions and areas. Your lawyer might have a stellar record working within the family court, however if they’ve never settled a personal injury claim then their experience might not be in your favour. When you’re choosing an attorney they’re representing you. So you want someone with the right skills, the right legal background, experience and professionalism to see it through, and get the result you want and deserve! 

Not mentioning the emotional impact

Failing to disclose to your lawyer that you’re suffering not just physically but also mentally and psychologically from your experience is a huge mistake. Emotional trauma is just as debilitating as a physical injury and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. If you’re more reserved, jumpy, frightened or irritable post-accident then you could be suffering the effects of emotional trauma. Speak to your Doctor as soon as you can. Ensuring their findings are on your medical report will only give stability and severity to your case.