When you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, navigating the legal process to receive compensation for your damages can be overwhelming. In La Plata, Maryland, personal injury cases require specific procedures and laws that must be followed to ensure a successful outcome.
Unfortunately, many individuals make mistakes that can jeopardize their case. Here are ten common mistakes to avoid in a Maryland personal injury case.
1) Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Maryland has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which means you have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It’s essential to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your injury to ensure you meet all deadlines.
2) Not Seeking Medical Treatment Immediately
If you delay seeking medical treatment after an injury, it can be challenging to prove the severity of your injuries and their connection to the accident. Additionally, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim because you waited to seek treatment.
It’s crucial to document your injuries and receive medical treatment as soon as possible after the accident.
3) Failing to Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
If you do not follow your doctor’s orders, it can negatively impact your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were caused by your failure to follow medical advice rather than the accident. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all scheduled medical appointments.
4) Not Preserving Evidence
Preserving evidence after an accident is crucial to proving your case. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, gathering witness statements, and obtaining a police report. If you fail to preserve evidence, it can be challenging to prove liability and damages.
5) Talking to the Insurance Company without an Attorney
Insurance companies are not on your side; they are looking to minimize their liability and pay out as little as possible. If you speak to the insurance company without an attorney present, you may say something that can be used against you later. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
6) Posting on Social Media
Insurance companies will scour your social media accounts, looking for evidence to use against you. Even if you believe your posts are harmless, they can be taken out of context and used to discredit your case. It’s best to avoid posting on social media until after your case is resolved.
7) Accepting a Settlement Too Quickly
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement to resolve your case, but it’s usually much less than what you are entitled to receive. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offers to ensure you receive fair compensation.
8) Not Considering All Damages
In addition to medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. It’s essential to consider all damages when calculating your claim.
9) Failing to Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating a personal injury case in La Plata, Maryland can be challenging without the help of an experienced attorney. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensure all deadlines are met, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
10) Not Preparing for Trial
While most personal injury cases settle out of court, it’s crucial to prepare for trial in case a settlement cannot be reached. This includes gathering evidence, preparing witnesses, and developing a strong legal argument.
Conclusion
Navigating a personal injury case in La Plata, Maryland can be challenging, but avoiding these common mistakes can increase your chances of success. By seeking medical treatment, preserving evidence, speaking to an attorney before the insurance company, and considering all damages, you can ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
If you need representation for a personal injury case, turn to the trusted team at The Law Office of William M. Burgess P.A. We have dedicated personal lawyers in La Plata, Maryland with professional experience to help you with legal matters. Call us at 301-645-3261 or you may also visit our dedicated law firm at 200 Washington Avenue, La Plata, MD 20646 for a free consultation.
