Our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry are dedicated to helping our Georgia clients avoid common mistakes in their claims because we understand that these errors can significantly impact the outcome of a case, potentially leading to reduced compensation or even the loss of the claim altogether.
We help clients effectively navigate the legal system so they can focus on their recovery while securing the best possible outcome for their cases.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in a Georgia Personal Injury Case
Avoiding common mistakes in a Georgia personal injury claim is crucial to ensuring your case is strong, and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Here are some of the most common of the most common missteps to avoid:
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Failing to Report the Incident
Not reporting the incident, whether a car crash, slip and fall, or industrial site injury, can undermine your claim. It may be more challenging to prove that the incident occurred and that your injuries resulted from it.
Always report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police for a vehicle collision or a property owner for a slip and fall. Obtain a copy of the report for your records.
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Not Gathering Evidence
Collect as much evidence as possible at the incident scene, such as photos, witness contact information, and any relevant documents.
A lack of evidence can severely weaken your case. You must prove the other party’s liability and the extent of your damages to succeed in a personal injury claim.
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Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
Always seek medical attention immediately after an incident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
Failing to seek prompt medical care can harm your health and case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not severe or were not caused by the incident if you delay treatment.
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Not Following Medical Advice
Failing to follow your doctor’s orders or missing appointments can suggest your injuries are not as severe as claimed. This can reduce the compensation you receive.
Always follow your doctor’s advice, attend all appointments, and complete the recommended treatment plan. Keep detailed records of your medical care and recovery process.
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Posting on Social Media
Insurance companies and defense attorneys often monitor social media accounts for posts that could be used against you. Even seemingly innocent posts can be taken out of context to dispute the severity of your injuries.
Avoid posting about your incident, injuries, or case on social media. It is best to limit your social media activity until your case is resolved.
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Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often ask for recorded statements shortly after an incident, hoping to catch you off guard. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize or deny your claim.
Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you consult an attorney. Let your attorney handle all communications with the insurance company.
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Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement that is far less than what your case is worth. Once you accept, you waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if your injuries worsen.
Don’t rush into accepting a settlement offer. Consult with an Atlanta personal injury attorney, like ours at Ashby Thelen Lowry, who can evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf.
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Failing to Consider Future Damages
Only considering your current medical bills and lost wages may result in a settlement that doesn’t cover future expenses like ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or lost earning capacity.
Work with our attorneys to assess the full impact of your injuries, including future medical costs, loss of earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
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Delaying the Filing of a Claim
Georgia has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, typically two years from the date of the injury. You may lose your right to file a lawsuit if you miss this deadline.
Act promptly. Consult with our attorneys as soon as possible to ensure all necessary paperwork is filed within the legal time frame.
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Not Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Personal injury law is complex, and trying to handle a case alone can lead to costly mistakes. You may not know how to value your claim or navigate the legal system properly without legal representation.
Hire an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Georgia law and can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.
Contact Our Skilled Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta, Georgia for Help
If you or someone you love has been injured or lost their life in a personal injury incident in Georgia, contact our skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyers and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation.
This initial step will ensure your rights are protected and enable you to make informed decisions about the direction of your claim.