Dos and Don’ts of Personal Injury Lawsuits

Have you been injured on the job, on someone else’s property, or due to someone else’s negligence? If any of these scenarios describe your experience, you probably have grounds to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. 

However, personal injury cases are not clear-cut, simple lawsuits. There are countless things you need to account for that can either add credibility to your case or undermine it. 

We want to help ensure your success. Keep reading for a quick guide on the dos and don’ts while filing a personal injury lawsuit. 

Do Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer as Soon as Possible

The absolute most important thing to do after suffering injuries is to contact a personal injury lawyer. They can help you prepare your case and guide you through the process. Just as critically, a personal injury attorney will help you identify all of your damages, as well as their values. 

For example, personal injury claims cover more than just your initial medical bills. They also help you find restitution for things like missed wages, lost jobs, lost retirement benefits, physical therapy costs, medication, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. 

Don’t Talk About Your Case on Social Media

Talking about your case on social media is one of the worst things you can do during a personal injury lawsuit. While we know you want to vent about your situation and keep your friends and family members updated, the things you post on social media aren’t necessarily private. 

The defense can use things you say (and what others say to you) to invalidate your personal injury claims. Therefore, it’s best to keep everything surrounding your case far from your social media account. 

Do Get Checked Out By a Doctor

One of the best ways to add credibility to your personal injury lawsuit is to get an official evaluation by a medical professional. Their diagnosis, documentation, and testimony regarding your injuries will carry a lot of weight in court if your case goes to trial. Although, most personal injury cases are settled before they go to court. 

Regardless, you need to find an experienced doctor to learn more about the extent of your injuries and the details of the recovery process. This will be for your own benefit, as well as the benefit of your case. 

Don’t Worry About Your Legal Expenses

Though it sounds counter-intuitive, you really don’t need to worry about the cost of your legal team. Most personal injury lawyers charge something called a contingent fee. Essentially, you only have to pay your lawyer if your case is successful. 

However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to their commission rates. Most lawyers will charge around 33% of your winnings to represent your case. Don’t overpay for services and be sure to ask if there are any additional fees. 

Do Push for the Restitution You Deserve

Finally, during a personal injury claim, it’s vital to pursue the compensation you and your lawyer decide is adequate for your damages. Don’t settle for the first low-ball offer you get.

The defendant (typically insurance companies) will hope you jump on the first offer they give you because it’s easy money. However, the first offer is rarely enough to cover all of your long-term costs or compensate you for your pain and suffering. 

Do You Have a Personal Injury Case?

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, reach out to a personal injury lawyer immediately to talk about your case. Most personal injury attorneys offer free case evaluations. Take advantage of these services to learn what to do moving forward. 

And if you want more personal or professional advice, check out the rest of our blog while you’re here. Our website is full of articles written for people like you. We make it our mission to provide as much valuable information and insight as possible.

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Christophe Rude
Christophe Rude
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