Most people in Indiana don’t know a lot about personal injury cases. The exception to this general rule is the experienced Indiana injury lawyer. A trial attorney has seen plenty of mistakes, and they know how easily a victim can hurt their own case.
Mistake #1: Giving a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
Following an injury, the insurance company for the at-fault party may try to get a recorded statement from you. They might try to get you to say things that could hurt your case, like admitting fault or downplaying your injuries. The best thing to do is to never give a statement to an insurance company without talking to an attorney first.
Mistake #2: Waiting to Seek Medical Treatment
This can really damage your case. If there’s any sort of delay in seeking medical treatment, the at-fault party’s insurance company will use this to argue that your injury isn’t serious or that you’re exaggerating it. If you’re the victim of a car crash, a slip and fall, or a dog bite, go to the doctor. If you think you aren’t hurt, let the doctor confirm it.
Mistake #3: Not Taking Medical Treatment Seriously
Don’t be too casual with your recovery! Also, be careful of what you say to the doctor or nurse, as anything you tell them can end up in your medical records. Be aware that virtual visits and messages to your doctor are still part of your medical records, and these things can end up as evidence in your case.
Mistake #4: Trying to Be Tough
If you’re in pain, you have to tell the doctor or nurse. This is a sign of injury—not weakness—and you want to have your injuries noted in your medical records. If you don’t mention it, it won’t be noted. If it isn’t noted, it might as well not exist. You need to be compensated for all of your injuries, not just the worst ones.
Mistake #5: Posting About Your Case on Social Media
Don’t do this! Posting about your injuries or your injury case can come back to bite you. What if you post something about enjoying a lovely day in the park while you’re still receiving physical therapy? Is this sort of physical activity inconsistent with your injuries? The insurance company will argue that it is, and it shows that they shouldn’t have to pay you.
Make the Right Call
These are five mistakes that can definitely hurt your injury case but avoiding them is no guarantee of success. If you’re looking for an Indiana injury lawyer who will fight for you, give us a call at 317-632-3642. Let the Marc Lopez Law Firm turn your frustration into compensation.
