Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Pennsylvania Personal Injury Case

Although the exact number of people who file personal injury claims each year is unknown, there are certain mistakes that may delay the claim process or result in a claim denial. Though you may be owed compensation for your injuries, these mistakes can cause you to lose your personal injury case. In this blog, our Harrisburg personal injury attorneys discuss these mistakes to help you safeguard your legal rights.

Admitting Fault

With emotions running high, you may find yourself apologizing or taking accountability for the collision. Even if you are responsible for the accident, never admit fault. Admitting fault can prevent you from being compensated, even if the other driver shares liability. Generally, it is advised that you avoid making statements that can be perceived as an admission of guilt and stick to the facts when recounting the incident.

Failing to Get Medical Attention

Following a personal injury, it is crucial that you get a medical evaluation to assess your injuries. If you refuse medical care and later attempt to file a claim, your insurance company (or the other party’s insurance company) may argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident. The insurance company may make this claim if you wait to receive medical treatment. By seeking medical treatment right away, you give yourself the best chance of physical recovery and the ability to be fully compensated for your injuries.

Failing to Call the Police (Auto Accidents)

Pennsylvania law requires that anyone involved in an automobile accident that results in injuries, fatalities, or significant vehicle damage contact the police. If a vehicle is damaged to the point that it must be towed, then you should call the police. If the police don’t respond to the scene, state law gives you five days to file an accident report with PennDOT. If you fail to contact the authorities, you will likely have difficulty filing an insurance claim. Additionally, failing to contact the police could result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties.

Accepting the First Insurance Offer

The first insurance offer is typically only 40 percent of what your case is actually worth. Given that the first settlement offer does not take loss of earning capacity or future medical expenses under advisement, our personal injury team generally recommends that injured parties do not accept the first offer. Once you do accept an offer, you will have to sign a waiver of liability that will prevent you from collecting further compensation.

Failing to Hire a Harrisburg Personal Injury Attorney

Even if you are involved in a minor accident or experience minimal injuries, it is important that you seek an experienced attorney who can assist you in filing your claim. A Harrisburg personal injury lawyer knows the ins and outs of the law as well as what paperwork must be submitted to your insurance company. If the insurance company claims that you contributed to your injuries, our legal team is prepared to present evidence to the contrary.

Reach Out to Our Harrisburg Personal Injury Attorneys Today

A personal injury can take a physical, emotional, and financial toll on an individual. Personal injury victims may struggle to pay their living expenses and utility bills, being unable to work while recuperating. If you or a family member has recently experienced a personal injury, HGSK Injury Lawyers is ready to assist you. To learn more about our approach or to schedule your free consultation, contact us online or by calling (267) 551-8782 today.