If you are injured by someone else’s negligence or carelessness, you have the right to file a personal injury claim to seek justice. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, punitive damages, and other economic and non-economic damages. However, there are 3 factors that could hinder your ability to obtain the compensation you deserve.
In Order to Protect Your Personal Injury Claim, You Should:
1. Avoid Posting on Social Media
Social media posts are public record. This means they may be used against you in court. When you file a personal injury lawsuit, the insurance company will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if your injuries are as severe as you say they are. They will look at your social media posts to find any evidence that may jeopardize your claim.
For example, if you post on Facebook that you feel fine after an accident, but you are now seeking compensation for soft tissue injuries that appeared after your post, the insurance company may say that you were not really injured in the accident. This will make it difficult to receive compensation. Thus, it is best to avoid posting on social media entirely until your case is concluded, or to at least set your privacy settings to the highest level.
2. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
After an accident, it is important to receive medical treatment as soon as possible. If you are seriously injured, you should call 911 and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. However, even if you feel uninjured, you should still see a doctor right away.
Some injuries, such as muscle sprains and strains, whiplash, and other soft tissue injuries, may not exhibit symptoms for hours or even days after the accident. If you wait to see a doctor, the insurance company may say that your injuries are not that serious, or that they were not actually caused by the accident. Thus, it is important to make an appointment to see your doctor immediately after an accident.
3. Communicate with Your Doctor
Medical records are key pieces of evidence for personal injury claims. However, if they do not accurately depict the severity and prognosis of your injuries, you may have a hard time pursuing compensation. For example, if you are having trouble performing household chores or daily tasks, but this fact is not listed in your medical records, the insurance company may try to reduce your compensation.
It is important to be completely open and honest with your doctor. You should inform him or her of all the symptoms and limitations your injuries have caused. This can help ensure your medical records accurately show the extent and nature of your injuries.
Knowledgeable Personal Injury Attorneys Serving St. Louis
The Simon Law Firm, P.C. represents clients who have suffered harm because of someone else’s negligence or recklessness. Whatever your situation, we will work hard to determine an effective legal strategy. Our St. Louis personal injury lawyers stay up to date on federal and state laws. We will guide you through the process as you pursue justice.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
