Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Personal Injury Claim
Don’t let a mistake ruin your future case
Dealing with a personal injury claim in Maryland can feel stressful, and for many, it’s a first-time challenge. Between paperwork, phone calls, filing, and more, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re dealing with an injury. It’s normal to be unsure of what to do, and it’s easy to make a mistake that could cost you. Unfortunately, these mistakes are common.
Insurance companies may seem helpful, but they’re trained to protect their bottom line, not yours. That’s why avoiding the most common errors can make a big difference in your case. At Goldberg Finnegan, we’ve helped countless injury victims across Maryland get back on their feet after a personal injury accident. We take the lead on claims and focus on building strong cases that help you get the best results possible.
Avoid these mistakes after a personal injury accident
Here are some common mistakes that can hurt your claim:
Delaying medical treatment
One of the biggest mistakes people make after an accident is waiting too long to see a doctor. You might think the pain will go away. Or you’re too busy, or maybe you’re worried about the cost. But from a legal standpoint, waiting to get treatment gives insurance companies a reason to say you weren’t hurt, or that your injury wasn’t caused by the accident at all.
Your medical records are a key part of your case. They are evidence that you suffered an injury that required medical attention. Delaying treatment weakens that evidence. Make sure to get checked out as soon as possible after your accident, even if you feel okay. Some injuries have delayed symptoms.
Not following your doctor’s advice
Getting medical treatment is one thing, but following through is just as important. If you skip appointments, ignore your treatment plan, or stop therapy early, it can hurt your case. The insurance company may argue that your injuries must not be that serious if you didn’t follow your doctor’s advice. This could lead to lower compensation or even a denied claim. Stick to your treatment plan. If something isn’t working or feels wrong, talk to your doctor about changing it.
Not documenting the accident or injury
Strong documentation can make or break a personal injury claim. When you don’t collect key evidence early on, it may be lost forever. Details fade, and physical evidence disappears. Without solid evidence such as photos, witness names, or accident reports, it’s much harder to prove what happened and how it affected you. If you’re able to do so, take photos of the scene, any visible injuries, and any property damage. Write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind. Save receipts, medical records, and any communication with the other party or their insurance.
Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company
After an accident, you may get a call from the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster asking to “get your side of the story.” It may sound routine, but giving a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first is risky. Adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that could get you to say something that weakens your claim. Anything you say can be twisted or taken out of context. Politely decline to give a statement until you’ve spoken with an experienced personal injury attorney. Let your lawyer handle communications on your behalf to protect your best interests.
Posting about your accident on social media
It might feel natural to post about your accident or injury online, especially if friends and family are checking in. But unfortunately, anything you post can be used against you. Insurance companies and defense attorneys often monitor social media. A photo, status update, or check-in can be used to argue that you’re not as injured as you claim. Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or activities while your claim is open. Ask friends and family to do the same.
Settling too quickly
Insurance companies often offer a quick settlement soon after an accident. When medical bills are piling up and you’re missing work, it can be tempting to accept. But these early offers are almost always far less than what your case is truly worth and what you need. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back for more, even if your condition gets worse or you need additional treatment. Don’t agree to any settlement without having an attorney review it. Your personal injury lawyer can help determine whether the offer is fair and negotiate for what you deserve.
Not speaking to a lawyer soon enough
The longer you wait to get legal advice, the more time the insurance company has to take advantage of you. Evidence can also be lost if you wait too long. In addition, there is a statute of limitations. In Maryland, you have three years from the date of your injury to take legal action. That sounds like a long time, but acting quickly can help your lawyer build a stronger case. Reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
How a personal injury lawyer helps you avoid these mistakes
The legal process can be confusing and overwhelming. That’s where an experienced personal injury lawyer comes in. At Goldberg Finnegan, we help injury victims avoid costly mistakes by guiding them through every step of the claims process. We will:
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Make sure you get proper medical care and document your injuries
- Gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and investigate your case
- Protect you from lowball offers and unfair tactics
- Make sure your case is filed correctly and on time
We’re here to support you and your family through this difficult time.
Talk to Goldberg Finnegan about your personal injury claim today.
You only get one shot at filing a personal injury claim. One mistake can cost you the compensation you need for your recovery and your future. That’s why it’s so important to have a legal team by your side that knows the law, understands the tactics insurance companies use, and genuinely cares about getting you justice.
At Goldberg Finnegan, we’re committed to helping injured individuals in Maryland get the results they deserve. We’re aggressive when it comes to protecting your rights while handling your situation with support and grace. If you or someone you love was hurt in an accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation or visit us at our Silver Spring or Rockville offices.
“I want to take the time to thank Goldberg Finnegan, especially Kevin and Tina. They did a great job at answering all of my questions and concerns. I would always get a quick response to my emails about the case. I couldn't be happier with the response I got in my case. Thanks again Kevin and Tina for everything.” – Claudia U., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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