After being hurt in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you want to focus on both your health and financial recovery. As you deal with an injury, it can be challenging for you to file a personal injury claim against the negligent party or their insurer. Because of this, you must hire a Cheyenne, WY injury lawyer who can tackle this task and more for you. By hiring an attorney, you won’t end up making mistakes that can damage your claim. When it comes to personal injury cases, the following are common mistakes claimants may make:
Not Hiring a Lawyer Due to the Related Cost
Nearly all personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis. With such an agreement, a lawyer will only get paid when they successfully pursue compensation for you. They will take just a percentage of the settlement you get. Often, the lawyer will cover the costs by themselves and recoup them when your case is finalized. Thus, you may not need to spend money upfront to hire a lawyer.
Giving an Official Statement to the Insurance Company
Insurance companies will fight claims, especially if a big amount of money is at stake. They will find ways to devalue or deny your claim. They usually do this by asking you to give them an official recorded statement. Unfortunately, agreeing to this may not be to your benefit. You may end up saying that the insurer will use it against you later. So, before you release any statement, ensure you consult with your attorney first.
Believing You Need to Go to Trial
Most personal injury claims are settled during negotiations. This is when both parties agree on a reasonable settlement amount. When settlement happens, you agree not to pursue further compensation from the insurer in the future. But if negotiations between you and the other party fail, your attorney may suggest that you take your case to court. When this happens, it’s a judge or jury that will decide whether or not you deserve compensation and how much.
Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
After sustaining an injury in an accident, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible to document your injury and ensure your safety. Not going to the doctor will only show that your injury is not serious enough to warrant treatment. Thus, you will give the insurance company a reason to deny or devalue your claim.
