Personal Injury Lawyer Baldwin

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Baldwin, you don’t have to navigate the legal aftermath alone. At Porta Clark & Ward, our team is committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or the emotional toll of a serious accident, a personal injury lawyer from our firm can guide you through every step of your claim. Call us today at (412) 912-2381 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery with trusted legal support on your side.

Our Services Include:

• Car Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Workers’ Compensation
• Slip and Falls
• Social Security Disability

Common Pitfalls to Avoid After a Personal Injury Accident

After a personal injury accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between dealing with physical recovery, financial stress, and the emotional toll, it’s easy to make mistakes that could impact your ability to seek proper compensation. To protect your rights and ensure that you receive the full benefits you deserve, it’s important to be mindful of how you handle the situation in the days and weeks following an accident. 

Failing to Seek Medical Attention

One of the biggest mistakes you can make after an injury is failing to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms. Without a proper medical evaluation, these issues could worsen over time.

Additionally, medical records are vital when pursuing a personal injury claim. If you delay or skip medical treatment, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim, or that they resulted from something other than the accident. Always seek medical care as soon as possible after an accident, and follow through with any recommended treatment.

Discussing Your Case Publicly

In the age of social media, it’s tempting to share details about your life, including the aftermath of an accident. However, posting about your injuries, accident, or ongoing legal case on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter can hurt your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies and defense lawyers often monitor social media for posts that could be used against you. A seemingly innocent post could be twisted to suggest that you’re not as injured as you claim.

To protect yourself, avoid discussing your case online or with anyone outside of your immediate support network. If you’re represented by a personal injury lawyer, they will guide you on what to say and to whom.

Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Counsel

After an accident, it’s common to receive calls from insurance adjusters who may seem friendly and eager to help. However, they are ultimately working to reduce the payout to you, not increase it. One of the most significant mistakes victims make is speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting with a personal injury lawyer.

Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly for a lower amount than what your case is worth. They might even ask leading questions designed to downplay the severity of your injuries. By consulting with a personal injury lawyer before discussing anything with the insurance company, you ensure that your rights are protected and that you don’t unintentionally harm your claim.

Settling Too Quickly

It’s natural to want the financial burden of an accident to be over, but settling too quickly is a common mistake. Insurance companies often offer an initial settlement shortly after an accident, but these offers are typically much lower than what you’re entitled to. Once you accept a settlement, you’re typically unable to reopen the case, even if your injuries turn out to be more severe than expected or your medical bills exceed the initial estimate.

Before accepting any settlement offer, it’s essential to fully understand the extent of your injuries and how they will impact your long-term health and finances. A personal injury lawyer can help you evaluate whether a settlement is fair or if you should pursue further legal action.

Not Documenting Everything

Thorough documentation is key to building a strong personal injury case. Many victims fail to properly document the details of the accident, their injuries, and their treatment, which can lead to complications down the road. If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to property. Keep a journal of how your injuries affect your daily life, including pain levels, mobility issues, and missed work.

Additionally, keep a record of all medical appointments, bills, and receipts related to your treatment. This documentation will support your claim and ensure that you’re reimbursed for all medical expenses and lost wages resulting from the accident.

Neglecting to Report the Accident

Sometimes, people are involved in accidents but fail to report them to the authorities. This is particularly common in minor accidents, but it can have serious consequences. Failing to report the accident can make it harder to prove your case later. In some jurisdictions, you may even be legally required to file a police report, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage.

It’s always best to file a report, even if the accident seems minor. The report will create an official record of what happened, which can be crucial for your personal injury claim.

Not Following Your Doctor’s Orders

After receiving medical care, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery. This includes attending follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and participating in physical therapy if necessary. Failing to follow these instructions not only hinders your recovery, but it can also be used against you by the opposing party in your case.

Insurance companies and defense attorneys will often argue that you’re not as injured as you claim if you’re not following your doctor’s treatment plan. Additionally, not adhering to your doctor’s orders may affect your long-term health, prolonging your recovery and potentially leading to more serious complications.

Overlooking Future Costs

When calculating the compensation you deserve, it’s important to consider not just your current medical bills and lost wages, but also any future costs related to your injury. For example, if your injuries require ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, or future surgeries, these expenses need to be included in your claim.

Many personal injury victims make the mistake of only considering their immediate financial losses, but a skilled personal injury lawyer will help you account for long-term expenses as well. By doing so, you ensure that you’re compensated for the full impact of the accident on your life.

Ignoring Legal Deadlines

In Baldwin, like in other areas, personal injury claims are subject to statutes of limitations, which are legal deadlines by which you must file your claim. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of your right to pursue compensation for your injuries. The exact time limit varies depending on the type of accident and other factors, so it’s crucial to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Get the Compensation You Deserve with a Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer in Baldwin

At Porta Clark & Ward, we understand the challenges that come with a personal injury, and we’re here to provide the support you need during this difficult time. Our team of personal injury lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t face the aftermath of an injury alone—contact us today at (412) 912-2381 for a free consultation. Let’s start building a stronger case for your future, together.