6 Key Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Injury Cases

If you have been part of an accident, you may have injuries related to that incident. Those injuries may be serious enough that you have to evaluate your options regarding addressing your long-term needs.

If you are considering pursuing legal action for the accident, there are a variety of things that you need to consider. Below are six key mistakes to avoid when you get injured in an accident, such as a car crash.

1. Don’t Neglect Seeking Medical Help

While it might seem like an expense you cannot afford, avoiding medical attention could potentially mean that you are not receiving the help you need for your injuries. Depending on the injury, the sooner you receive medical intervention, the better it is for your overall recovery.

It also strengthens any claim you may have, as injuries are harder to prove as being related to the accident if you wait before seeking medical attention. Therefore, when the medical personnel asks if you want to get checked out, take them up on the offer.

2. Don’t Forget to Write Down What Happened

For many of us, those minutes after an accident seem etched in our memory, like a slow-motion movie. However, as time goes on, key details may begin to fade. As soon as you have a few moments, jot down what happened and make sure that you include as much detail as possible from your perspective of events. That information could be helpful down the road if you decide to pursue the matter further.

3. Don’t Throw Away Those Receipts

It might seem like a no-brainer, but it is easy to just toss a receipt for medications you have purchased. Keep your receipts related to any medical attention that you seek and prescriptions that you fill. If you have to purchase any devices to assist you, such as crutches, then make sure to record that as well.

Any medical bills or receipts from your doctors also need to be kept. These records would include co-payments and even special food if required by your physician.

4. Don’t Avoid Tracking Your Injuries

Depending on how extensive your injuries are, you may need to seek additional medical attention or have repeat visits with your doctor. Keeping a diary of your injuries, medical visits, and any impact it has on your life is important for helping you to recall details later. As part of this recordkeeping, include correspondence with your doctors and any paperwork you receive during those visits.

5. Don’t Forget to Track Financial Losses

Track any financial losses, including wages due to being off of work, as part of your records. If you are self-employed, keep track of jobs you were unable to take due to your injuries.

While it might not be much, you need to know the financial impact your injury had if you decide to pursue the matter further. Your overall pain and suffering will need to be considered, including any physical, emotional and financial strains.

6. Don’t Forget the Witnesses

No matter how large or small the accident is, obtain the names and addresses of any witnesses. This information might be included in your police report, but if possible, you need to be sure to collect that information. These witnesses can be helpful in determining the events surrounding the accident, especially since they can provide details based on their different vantage points.

If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention, but also find a skilled attorney in your area, who can guide you through the legal process of dealing with the insurance company settlement. Contact us for a free evaluation and we can help you better understand your options under the law.

As one of the most successful litigation practices in the Philadelphia area, Marrone Law Firm, LLC provides vigorous, effective representation in matters ranging from personal injury and medical malpractice to real estate and criminal law.