While no one expects to be hurt, it’s important to remember that a personal injury case begins the moment of the injury. If the event is due to the negligence of another party, you may be eligible for a personal injury claim to cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. When pursuing this claim, avoid these common mistakes that may hurt your chance for fair financial compensation.

1. Don’t post about it on social media
   Though you may want to post on Facebook or Twitter to update your friends and family about your injury and recovery, or about your activities, anything that you put on social media can be used against you. Be aware that the information you share doesn’t have to directly relate to your injury. For instance, claiming to be severely injured after an auto collision and posting a photo of yourself playing basketball or claiming an emotional injury but posting a photo of yourself that contradicts that claim could cause skepticism to your claims. While there may be legitimate reasons for the pictures, insurance companies will take them at face value, potentially impacting your final settlement.
2. Understand insurance isn’t your friend
   At the end of the day, the insurance company is concerned about the insurance company. Don’t agree to an interview or recorded statement if you’re under the influence of medication, and monitor what you tell the insurance adjuster, including information about your treatment progression. With your own insurance company, cooperate fully and do what they request.
3. Use PIP coverage
   PIP, or personal insurance protection, is an extension of car insurance that covers medical bills and, often, lost wages. Although PIP is not required in Washington, carrying it will help with certain expenses after a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.
4. Call the police, and/or document the scene
   In an auto collision, along with collecting the other party’s contact and insurance information, contact the police immediately. If the police aren’t able to come, take pictures of the accident and get as many witnesses as possible. Taking photographs of the scene and collecting witness information is also important in a slip and fall injury, where the circumstances that caused the accident may change while your claim is being processed.
5. Tell your medical provider all of your problems
   While there may be temptation to put on a brave face and downplay any pain or injuries you’ve incurred, inform your medical provider of any problems you have been experiencing since your accident, even if they don’t seem initially related. Your provider may find other potential complications, and documenting your medical issues will help your personal injury case.
6. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible
   If your case is serious, hiring a personal injury lawyer immediately is critical, though you shouldn’t hesitate to contact a lawyer for almost any other personal injury case. As Everett personal injury attorneys, we offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and advise you if you’d benefit from our assistance. However, our main concern is your health. Seek all appropriate medical treatment first, and focus on a quick recovery.At Kadish Twersky, our Seattle and Everett personal injury lawyers know how difficult this time can be for you and your family. We’ll fight to get you the financial compensation you deserve.

This website includes general information about legal issues to be used for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These informational materials are not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances or to create an attorney-client relationship.