What Do I Need To Avoid Following An Accident?
Q. I’m not hurt. Can I skip the doctor visit?
A. Even if you don’t feel like you’ve been injured in an accident, it doesn’t mean that you’re not hurt. Injuries can take time to manifest, and if you wait too long you’ll essentially eliminate your right to file a claim through PIP. You only have 14 days to seek medical help for a PIP claim, and the longer that you wait to get medical attention for your injuries the harder it will be to prove your case at all. In short, never skip the doctor’s visit after an accident. It’s vital for making sure you get what you’re owed.
Q. Do I really need to get a lawyer?
A. Absolutely, yes. The process of getting compensation isn’t as easy as most might think it is, and just having a lawyer on your side means that you start to get the respect of the other side. You’ll also be able to rest and focus on your physical healing while we fight to get you what you’re owed. And, since your attorney is experienced in personal injury law, you’ll have a much better chance of getting the compensation that you really deserve instead of something less. Simply put, a lawyer is a must for those injured in an accident.
Q. The insurance company keeps calling me. Should I answer?
A. No, or if you do, do so only to direct them to talk to your attorney. Insurance companies and the legal teams for the other side often try to use bullying tactics or tricky techniques to force or fool the injured into accepting less than they deserve or into believing that they aren’t owed compensation at all. When the other side approaches you, it’s vital that you direct them to your attorney to ensure your case goes forward properly.
Q. Can I keep using my social media accounts?
A. Yes, you can. However, it’s important that you use them wisely. For example, remember that even a single photo posted and taken out of context could be used against you in the case. A photo of you from 3 years ago dancing and enjoying yourself that you only recently upload may be used by the other side to show that you aren’t injured. It’s important that when using social media during your recovery process, you use them wisely and think before you post. From Twitter to Facebook to Instagram, one poorly thought out post could have a tremendous impact on your case. When in doubt, don’t make the post.
Q. How important are my records and documentation?
A. Extremely important. You can’t afford to toss out records and documentation of things like medical bills, missed days at work, and so on. Keep notes and save all receipts and bills. They’ll all be used to show that you are owed compensation and make sure that you get the most from your case. Without documents to prove what your injuries have cost you, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact settlement amount that is fair for your case. Even if you think something may be of little use, it could be more important than you assume at first. Keep a record of everything and provide it to your lawyer. They can determine what is usable and what isn’t, and structure your case accordingly.
Q. I’ve been offered a settlement! Can I take it?
A. Again, as with talking to the other side, the answer here is simply that you shouldn’t blindly accept a settlement until you talk to your lawyer. An accident can lead to serious, significant costs including things like years of potential lost wages, impacts on retirement funds or insurance, medical bills, medication costs, and more. Each of these needs to be considered to make sure that a settlement is really giving you what you deserve so you can get on your feet. Our lawyers review your case with experts to make sure you get what you’re really owed.
