After an accident, your first concern should always be your health and recovery. But failing to file a report or claim promptly can forfeit your personal injury case and any settlement — and you'll want someone on your side who knows the insurance companies and how to deal with them to secure fair, optimal compensation.
Don't Face the Insurers Unarmed
Insurance companies are businesses, and they work hard to find ways to avoid paying — the less they pay, the more they make. Expect them to investigate the facts of your claim thoroughly, including any pre-existing conditions or history that might diminish your current claim. In some cases they'll even hire an investigator to follow you, hoping to catch you doing something physically strenuous that contradicts your injuries.
Be Honest With Your Injury Lawyer
One of the worst mistakes you can make is failing to tell your personal injury lawyer about pre-existing injuries, prior accidents, or other complaints from before the accident. The insurer's investigators and lawyers will obtain your past medical records, and if you weren't open about earlier injuries, it makes you appear dishonest — drastically reducing your credibility about your current pain and injuries.
Be detailed about your injuries, aches, and pains, and work with your lawyer to keep a log of how the injury has limited your activity and affected your day-to-day life. Your lawyer can only fight your case well when they know everything — so keep them updated on any changes in treatment, treating physician, new injuries, a return to work, or additional applications for insurance benefits.
Ensure Maximum Recovery
Your best bet for getting the compensation you deserve is to hire a trusted injury lawyer in Alpharetta or Marietta to fight your case. In short:
- Report and file your claim promptly — don't risk forfeiting your case.
- Only discuss your case with your doctors and your lawyer.
- Keep yourself and your loved ones off social media until it's resolved.
- Be fully honest about your medical history, and keep a log of your limitations.
- Update your lawyer on every change as the case progresses.