What are 6 Common Personal Injury Mistakes to Avoid?

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When dealing with a personal injury case, avoiding certain mistakes can make all the difference in securing a fair settlement. Here are six key mistakes to steer clear of:

1. Delaying Medical Treatment

The most critical mistake is not seeking medical treatment immediately after an injury. If you’re hurt, see a doctor as soon as possible, especially one specializing in the type of injury you’ve sustained. Delaying treatment not only puts your health at risk but also weakens your case.

2. Playing the Hero

While it may be tempting to push through the pain and return to work, doing so can make your injuries worse and negatively impact your claim. If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, don’t try to “tough it out”—instead, focus on healing.

3. Giving a Recorded Statement

Never provide a recorded statement to the insurance company without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is to find ways to reduce or deny your claim. An offhand comment can come back to hurt your case, so always let your lawyer handle communication with the insurer.

4. Missing Legal Deadlines

There are important legal deadlines, sometimes as short as 30 days, that must be met. Missing these can result in losing your right to pursue a claim. Always have an attorney review and file the necessary paperwork in a timely manner.

5. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

The first offer from an insurance company is rarely the best one. Before accepting any settlement, consult an attorney to ensure you’re getting what you deserve. Many initial offers are far lower than the true value of your claim.

6. Not Consulting an Attorney

Navigating the personal injury process on your own is a major mistake. An experienced attorney knows how to fight the tactics insurance companies use and can greatly improve your chances of success.

Call Cantor, Wolff, Nicastro & Hall at (716) 848-8000 for a free consultation. Don’t go through it alone!