How to Avoid Being Taken Advantage of in a Personal Injury Case

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, trying to work through a personal injury case can feel overwhelming. As you seek compensation, you may find yourself up against experienced insurers and attorneys, which makes it even easier to be taken advantage of. 

Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be your story.

Find a Good Lawyer

You need a good personal injury attorney on your side – no ifs, ands, or buts about it. Facing a personal injury case alone can be daunting, and having experienced legal representation can level the playing field. A good attorney will guide you through the legal process and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.

“Personal injury law is complex, and unfortunately, getting what’s fair normally means negotiating a settlement, dealing with insurance providers, and taking the personal injury case to court,” Bamieh & De Smeth explains. “It can be difficult to know exactly how much compensation you need and are entitled to without professional legal advice.”

Your attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring you're not pressured into accepting a lowball offer. They can also help gather and organize evidence, consult medical experts to understand the extent of your injuries, and represent you in court if necessary. In short, they're your champion, fighting to ensure you're not taken advantage of.

Don't Rush Into Settlements

One of the biggest pitfalls in a personal injury case is rushing into a settlement. After an accident, you might be approached with a settlement offer. It could be tempting, especially with mounting medical bills and the possibility of not being able to work. 

But here's the thing: Initial offers are almost always lowballs, designed to close the case quickly and cheaply for the insurance company. In some cases, they might only be worth 25 percent of the full amount the insurance is willing to pay. They’re just throwing out a figure to see if you’ll take the money and run.

It's crucial to take your time. Understand that you have the right to consider the offer and don't have to accept it immediately. This is one of the reasons you’ll need a lawyer. They can give you a clear picture of what your claim is truly worth. 

Remember, once you accept a settlement, you usually can't go back and ask for more money later, even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you initially thought. The number you agree to is the number you’re getting, so take your time and don’t be in a rush to say yes.

Be Real About the Full Extent of Your Injuries

This brings us to the next point: Understanding the full extent of your injuries. This isn't just about the immediate pain or the visible bruises and cuts. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, can take days or even weeks to fully manifest. And it’s important to realize that the emotional and psychological impact of an accident can be just as debilitating as the physical injuries.

Before even considering a settlement, make sure you've had a comprehensive medical evaluation and follow-up appointments as necessary. Your health should be your top priority, and this also ensures you have a clear understanding of your injuries and any potential long-term effects. This information is vital in determining the true value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.

Keep Thorough Documentation

Documentation is your best friend in a personal injury case. From the moment the accident happens, start collecting evidence. This includes photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Exchange information with the other party involved and gather contact details from any witnesses. It might feel somewhat awkward to do this at the time, but this evidence will become very valuable as your case progresses and you begin working with your attorney to build the value of your claim.

But it doesn't stop there. Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, including visits to the doctor, physical therapy sessions, medications, and any other related expenses. It's also wise to keep a diary of how your injuries affect your daily life and well-being. This can be a powerful tool in illustrating the impact of the accident on your life, beyond just the financial costs.

You Are Your Own Best Advocate

While we highly encourage you to hire an attorney for your personal injury case, at the end of the day, you have to remember that you are your best advocate. That means you have to step up and be proactive. 

Sitting back and wishing things were different does you no good. Be the one that pushes your case forward and makes it a priority.