If you’ve been injured in an accident, whether it’s from a car crash, on the job, or otherwise due to another’s negligence, your life can be flipped upside down. The injuries can keep you out of work–temporarily or permanently, stop you from enjoying everyday activities that you once loved, or disable you for the rest of your life.

You want to make sure that you are getting compensation equal to the injury you’ve received. But, there are mistakes you can make that will result in your claim getting less compensation or none at all.

The insurance companies and their lawyers are going to take advantage of any mistakes you make to pay you as little as possible.

Not Taking Immediate Action

Depending on how serious your injury is, it may not be possible for you to take immediate action, but it should be taken as soon as possible. Always make records or take pictures of any relevant information at the scene of the accident. If possible, get the names and contact information of witnesses. Write down your account of what happened because, over time, important details may slip your mind.

You should keep a record of all your expenses resulting from the accident. The documentation should include property damage, medical costs, lost wages, and other related expenses or losses.

Not Hiring an Attorney

You may think that the insurance adjuster is giving you a fair amount for your injury, or maybe you aren’t the suing type. Keep in mind that an insurance company is looking out for themselves, and you should too. If you try to represent yourself, the insurance company will do everything they can to give you the runaround and turn the blame on you.

Every case is different, so there is no guarantee that your case will receive a specific amount, but hiring a personal injury attorney will get you more than the insurance company is offering.

Falsifying Injuries or Symptoms

You should never exaggerate your symptoms in an attempt to receive more compensation. It’s not a good idea, and it can compromise your case. By doing this you’re opening up the opportunity for the opposing counsel to argue that they are not responsible for some or all of your injury. Let your attorney handle negotiations, they will get you a fair compensation that will cover all your losses.

On the other hand, many injury victims settle their claims before they know the extent of their injuries or before they have finished treatment. Some injury victims downplay or ignore minor injuries because they don’t want to seem like a complainer. If you accept a low settlement or deep more serious complications later, you could be stuck with considerable medical expenses.

Social Media

Do not discuss your case with others on any social media platform. While you are trying to receive compensation for your injuries, the insurance company is looking for ways to discredit you or pay you less. They will use whatever they can against you, including your own social media posts. Something as simple as a smiling selfie can be turned against you to discredit your claims.

The Pottenger Law Firm has more than 25 years of experience dealing with personal injury cases and insurance companies. We will properly handle your case and negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf. We prepare every case for trial in case the opposition refuses to offer a fair amount. To reach us, call 816-531-6006 or send us a message to arrange a free consultation.