Getting hurt in an accident can turn your lift upside down fast. Apart from pain, stress and paperwork, you can make mistakes that will further hurt your case. You may not even be aware of those mistakes you do. That’s why we thought of letting you know about the common mistakes that people do with their personal injury accident cases in Chicago.
1. Skipping the Doctor
This is mistake number one. You feel fine at the scene, so you think you’re okay. Well, adrenaline masks pain. Injuries like whiplash, concussion and internal bleeding can take hours or even days to surface.
Visit a doctor that day if possible. Your medical record will connect your injuries to the accident. Without seeing a doctor, the insurance company will claim your injury was insignificant or did not result from the crash.
2. Apologizing at the Scene
Nobody wants to cause an accident. It’s only natural to apologize. Most people do it instinctively. However, saying “I’m sorry” can come back to haunt you. It can be used as an admission of guilt.
Limit your conversation at the scene to names, phone numbers and insurance information. Let the police and your attorney determine who is at fault. Never guess or accept responsibility.
3. Failure to Collect Evidence
Photos and witness information are often the difference between winning and losing a claim. Take pictures of the cars, roadway conditions, traffic signs, skid marks and your injuries as soon as possible.
Collect names and phone numbers from anyone who witnessed the accident. Jot down the time, date and specific location. Evidence doesn’t stick around. Collect it while you can.
4. Speaking with the Insurance Adjuster Too Soon
Insurance adjusters will contact you within days of the accident. They will seem friendly and understanding but remember, they work for the insurance company, not you.
Never provide a recorded statement without consulting an attorney. Let them handle all communication. The insurance adjuster could use something as simple as “I feel better today” against you. Politely refuse until you talk to your lawyer.
5. Skipping Physical Therapy Sessions
Missing your doctor’s appointment will raise a red flag. Insurance companies look for holes in your treatment. If you miss physical therapy sessions or fail to follow-up with your doctor, they will claim your injuries must not have been that serious.
Stick to your treatment plan as closely as possible. Attend all appointments and keep any receipts or records you receive.
6. Posting on Facebook
That picture of you smiling at your birthday dinner could be used against you. Insurance companies and defense attorneys investigate social media accounts following an accident.
Do not post about your accident, injuries or day-to-day activities while your claim is pending. Even innocent posts can be taken out of context.
7. Accepting the First Offer
You should never accept the first offer from an insurance company. They offer a low amount at first knowing you may simply accept it. Think about it. Why would an insurance company make a fair offer if they don’t have to?
Get a clear understanding of your medical bills, lost wages and future care needs before accepting any offer. Once you sign a release, that’s it. You can’t ask for more later on, even if you suffer additional injuries.
Waiting Too Long to Get Legal Help
Colorado has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to file entirely. The earlier you act, the more evidence your attorney can preserve.
If you were hurt in Chicago, reaching out to an personal injury lawyer in Chicago sooner rather than later gives you the best shot at fair compensation. An attorney can handle the insurance company, meet all deadlines, and make sure your rights are fully protected from day one.
