SKIP TO CONTENTWhen you’re filing a personal injury claim, the process can be overwhelming. While recovering from your injury, you must navigate an unfamiliar, complex system. This makes it easy to make mistakes. Even details that seem small can make a huge difference in the outcome of a personal injury case.
One way to avoid mistakes people make in personal injury cases is by being aware of them. If you’re filing a claim for a personal injury case, contact an Oklahoma personal injury lawyer at Bryan Garrett PLLC to help you through the complex claims process.
Five Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Injury Cases
Personal injury cases include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability
- Wrongful death
Each of these case types has unique requirements for their claims. However, people make common mistakes in personal injury cases that you want to avoid across the board.
Accepting a Settlement Offer Too Soon
When you suffer an injury at the hands of someone else, the liable party’s insurance company will contact you soon after. While the insurance adjuster will act friendly, you should know they don’t have your interest in mind. Their goal is to settle your case for the least amount of money possible.
In personal injury cases, you need to consider all of your losses, including those you’ll suffer in the future due to your injury. Before you accept any offer, contact an Oklahoma personal injury lawyer at Bryan Garrett PLCC. We’ll help you assess the true value of your claim.
Lack of Medical Attention
Following the event that led to your injury, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Waiting too long can discredit your claim. A medical professional will provide records for evidence of your injuries. They can also attest to the extent of your injuries and whether you’re likely to suffer long-lasting effects.
If you don’t seek medical treatment, you have very little evidence of your injuries.
Inconsistency
Injuries can be traumatic. Your thoughts may be jumbled, and you might be fuzzy on the details. However, consistency is important when making an official statement.
Keep your facts straight when speaking to an insurance adjuster, a liable party, or a legal representative. When in doubt, refer them to your lawyer. Providing inconsistent details can undermine your story, hurting your case.
Lack of Evidence
Your word alone won’t convince a court to award you damages. You need evidence from the accident scene. When your accident occurs, take careful note of the exact day, time, and place. If you’re able, take pictures and videos of the scene.
For example, if you slip and fall in a store from a substance on the floor, take a picture of the floor’s condition. If there were witnesses to your accident, collect their contact information.
You won’t have a strong case without sufficient witness statements, documentation of your injuries, and physical evidence.
Missing Deadlines
Oklahoma’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years. Don’t wait until the deadline is approaching, or you risk missing your opportunity to collect compensation. Hiring an attorney will help you keep track of important deadlines.
Avoid Mistakes With an Oklahoma Personal Injury Lawyer
You don’t have to take on this process by yourself. A lawyer from Bryan Garrett PLLC will help you collect evidence, contact witnesses, calculate damages, and file your claim on time.
If you’re filing a claim and want to avoid common mistakes people make in personal injury cases, call us at 405-725-2661 to start with a free consultation.
