Making a personal injury claim can seem daunting before you begin the process. However, with the right help, it can be simple and straightforward.
There are a number of things you can do to make claiming easier – from recording how your injury has affected you to ensuring your records and the details of anyone involved are easily accessible.
But do you know what you should avoid doing when making a claim?
Not collecting evidence
One of the first things you should do after suffering an injury is collect evidence. Photographs, video and witness details will all prove useful during a claim. The evidence you’re able to collect will depend on the accident you suffered, as well as the injury sustained. For example, if you tripped over an uneven paving stone, a photograph showing this will be helpful. Photos and evidence of the injuries sustained will also be beneficial to your solicitor when making a claim.
Waiting too long
In most cases, you’ll have three years to make a personal injury claim. This is why you should start the process of making a claim as soon as possible. The last thing you want is to miss the deadline. This time limit isn’t applicable to everyone, though. Children can claim at any point until their 21st birthday, while those claiming on behalf of someone without the mental capacity to claim for themselves won’t face a deadline.
Refuse a medical
Medical evidence is going to be key to your claim. Having a medical specialist examine you will provide proof of how you have suffered harm as a result of your accident. If your solicitor advises you to undergo a medical, don’t refuse the offer. Let their specialist check you over and explain exactly how you’ve been injured. It will go a long way towards helping you secure the maximum compensation.
Not sharing all symptoms
When you do undergo your medical, it’s vital that you mention all of the symptoms you’ve been suffering from. The doctor examining you may not ask you whether you’ve been experiencing specific symptoms, so it will be up to you to make sure they know what you’ve been going through. All of your symptoms are important and could reflect a serious condition, so it’s essential that you share them with the doctor.
Accepting the first offer
It is understandable that you would want to accept the first offer that is made during negotiations. However, your solicitor will likely encourage you to hold out for a better one. Of course, there is no guarantee that this will happen, but the stronger you are, the better your chance of receiving a higher offer.
Forgetting about financial losses
When making a personal injury claim, you won’t only be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve experienced. You’ll also be entitled for reimbursement for financial losses incurred as a direct result of the injury. This includes travel to and from medical appointments, medical treatment and replacing damaged property. So make a record of what you’ve had to spend and give it to your solicitor. You can also recoup any loss of earnings if you’ve been unable to work.
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