The Tampa personal injury law firm of Timothy G. Anderson lists common mistakes you can make that might jeopardize your legal case or lawsuit claim along with tips for how you can avoid them.
No documentation: If you have been hurt in an accident caused by someone’s carelessness or negligence, you should document physical evidence at the scene or soon after to support your personal injury claim. Try to get photographs of any accident scene because scenes can be altered and memories are sketchy and unreliable.
No medical reports: Go to see a doctor immediately. Do not make the mistake of delaying medical treatment as it can jeopardize your lawsuit. Injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident, even those that seem minor, can become serious. Often pain is not felt immediately because of stress. Don’t try to “tough it out,” get your injuries documented even if you do not have health insurance.
Trying to represent yourself: Insurance companies are represented by knowledgeable adjusters and attorneys. Representing yourself in an injury claim is risky. Do not try to negotiate your own financial settlement. This can result in a lesser amount of money than you need to cover your medical costs and lost wages.
Getting too emotional: Do not harbor a hostile or belligerent attitude. Do not isolate yourself and leave yourself open to depression. You are going to need family and friends to support you and perhaps be witnesses for you in court. However, choose your confidantes carefully and watch what you say. Sometimes even well-meaning family and friends can disclose things about you that can reflect negatively upon you and jeopardize your case.
Waiting to hire a lawyer: Do not wait to contact a lawyer. Florida accident laws are complex and delays can hurt the presentation of your injury claim.
Not hiring a Tampa lawyer who specializes in your type of case: The law is complicated and you need to hire a specialist who not only knows the ins and outs of the law but is familiar with the local jurisdiction. Only a board-certified civil trial lawyer such as Timothy G. Anderson is allowed to be called an expert.
By following some simple guidelines, you can avoid making the most common mistakes that would jeopardize your case. For more information on how to handle your legal situation, contact Tampa attorney Timothy G. Anderson’s law office for a personal consultation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident such as a trucking accident, motorcycle accident, or a car accident, contact the injury law firm of Timothy G. Anderson or call (813) 251-0072 for a free case evaluation.
