In Georgia personal injury cases, the steps you take following your accident can have a massive impact on your case. There are certain legal pitfalls you will want to be sure you avoid.
To help build a strong case, these are some general steps you should follow.
Get Prompt Medical Treatment for Your Injuries
When you’ve suffered an injury because of someone else’s negligence, it’s wise to go to the hospital or visit a doctor as soon as possible. If you delay getting the treatment you need, you may jeopardize your case. You may also cause your injuries to worsen and even become life-threatening.
Getting prompt medical treatment ensures your health is taken care of while also giving you the evidence you need to prove you were injured. Medical records can also document your pain and suffering, allowing you to make claims for those in your damages.
Make Sure You Follow Up on Treatments
In addition to getting your injuries treated promptly, you should follow all recommended medical advice. If the emergency room physician advises you to see a neurologist, you need to follow up. If you ignore this medical advice, the insurance company will try to claim that you are either not hurt or your injuries are not as severe as you are saying.
Don’t Go on the Record
If you’re filing a personal injury claim, you will likely contact the at-fault party’s insurer. They may tell you that they will record the conversation. At the same time, they will likely say things to help you put your guard down. This may lead you to say things that can be taken the wrong way. You’re not legally obligated to provide a recorded statement in these circumstances.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
These injuries you’ve sustained are likely painful, and the added financial strain has likely stressed you out. This is why a fast settlement check may seem like a huge relief. Don’t accept that check without having an attorney look it over first.
Insurers know that you likely haven’t fully looked at the full costs of your damages. If they get you to take this check, you can’t ask for more. It may not be enough to cover your future medical treatments, lost wages, and the impacts of your mental anguish when all is said and done.
Other Legal Pitfalls in Personal Injury Cases
You will also want to avoid posting on social media until your case is concluded. Anything you post can be used to negate your claims. Additionally, the statute of limitations for filing your lawsuit is two years from the date of your injury. You don’t want to miss your chance to get the compensation you deserve.
Suffering a personal injury because someone else was careless is a frustrating experience. While dealing with the pain, you may not know what else to do when filing your case. This is why you should work with a qualified Georgia personal injury lawyer for best outcomes.
