The CDC reports that 800,000 patients are hospitalized each year because of a fall injury. These accidents are the main cause of traumatic brain injuries. If you're a victim of a slip-and-fall injury, you should consult a personal injury injury lawyer for advice on your legal options. Here are some mistakes you should avoid when you have been the victim of a slip-and-fall injury.
Failing to File a Claim
If you were injured at a business premises, your slip-and-fall injury lawyer can seek damages through business liability insurance. If the injury occurs at a private residence, your lawyer can seek damages from the home owner's insurance.
Whatever the case, make sure you file an insurance claim immediately. Insurance carriers have deadlines for injury claims, and if you file a claim after the deadline, you may lose your chance of being compensated.
Ask the property owner for the contact information for the insurance carrier and report the incident. Refrain from providing your opinions on why the accident occurred or who is to blame. You could easily incriminate yourself or minimize your injuries by drawing unfounded conclusions. Furthermore, this could prevent you from getting fair compensation.
Exaggerating the Claim
Many people involved in slip-and-fall injuries tend to exaggerate their claims to maximize their damage awards. Lying to an insurance carrier about your injuries or losses ruins your credibility. In the worst-case scenario, you may be accused of insurance fraud. Be honest about your injuries and how you sustained them.
Ignoring Your Doctor's Instructions
After a slip-and-fall accident, you'll likely get prescription medicine. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy for injuries that affect your mobility. Failing to follow your physician's instructions will work to the advantage of the insurance company. Insurance adjusters look for gaps in treatment to try and lower the amount of medical expenses paid out to you.
Accepting the First Offer You Get
Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company's interest and will try and pay as little compensation as possible. Therefore, you shouldn't settle in the absence of your slip-and-fall lawyer.
Furthermore, some slip-and-fall injuries get worse gradually, and you may not know what the future holds. Before you understand the full extent of your injuries and how long it will take to recover, desist from accepting any settlement. You may lose out on future damage awards such as temporary disability and wage losses.
Contact a personal injury lawyer in your area to learn more.
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