If you have been hurt in an accident due to somebody else’s recklessness, you deserve compensation for the injuries you sustained. But you should not undermine your injury claim. To increase your chances of winning the claim, work with a skilled Ontario injury lawyer. The best lawyer knows how insurers work and what defenses they push. They are aware of ways to counter these defenses to ensure you get a fair settlement. To ensure you don’t hurt your claim, here’s what you should not do:
Not Getting Timely Medical Treatment
Even if you are hurt, you may still choose not to seek medical attention immediately as you focus on the demands of your everyday life and hope that your symptoms will disappear. Unfortunately, insurers will take advantage of this potential. If you don’t seek timely treatment, you could undermine the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries. If you experience pain, you should get a medical evaluation immediately. Usually, the pain and other symptoms are delayed and can get worse over time. This is the reason you must see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident.
Not Documenting the Accident
As soon as you can, ensure you make notes on the accident you are involved in. While still at the accident scene, consider taking photos and videos. Also, collect the contact and insurance information of the negligent party and those who have witnessed the accident. Remember to keep a record of property damage and receipts of expenses associated with your medical care. Your attorney will also request a copy of your medical records.
Talking Too Much
Insurers will want to avoid responsibility and do whatever it takes to block your fair compensation. They will try to devalue or deny even a valid claim. They will assign a friendly insurance adjuster to your claim who will contact you to offer fake sympathy. However, you should not fall for it because they just want you to say something that they can use against you to reduce your damages. The adjuster may ask you to sign a document that releases the insurer of the responsibility to pay you additional damages.
In addition, you should not share information on your case or health on social media. Insurance adjusters will follow your activities and may use your social media posts to undermine your claim. Before you post something online, it is best to consult with your lawyer first.
