The process of filing a personal injury suit is rarely as simple as many people believe it is. Clients often enter cases with preconceived notions which can lead to lower settlements and outright dismissals. Below are a few things that may cause a client to lose his or her personal injury case.
A Lack of Legal Representation
The claims process is largely bureaucratic, and it involves the filing of a significant amount of paperwork. A client and his or her Injury Attorney in Lafayette LA must work with the court to ensure that everything is filed on time and in compliance with the law. If a victim doesn’t have a legal representative, they’re more likely to make mistakes that can ruin the case.
Contributory Negligence
In many personal injury claims, fault isn’t clear-cut and parties share responsibility. If the division of responsibility comes to the point where the victim has more blame than the defendant, no damages will be awarded. Even in cases where the defendant is more to blame, the difference can make or break a case.
Misrepresentation of Facts
Many people think of injury claims as a chance to get a big payout or punish someone. However, this mindset can be a big mistake during a personal injury case. Fraudulent acts can lead to dismissals of claims and counterclaims, and in some cases, they can result in criminal charges against the claimant.
Social Media Usage
Because of smartphones, there are cameras everywhere. While it’s fun to document one’s life on Facebook and other sites, claimants should consider the possibility that their posts can be used against their claims. In most cases, an Injury Attorney in Lafayette LA will advise clients not to talk about the case on social media.
Being Unprepared
If someone is injured in an accident, they’ll likely have questions about filing a claim. Victims who handle their own cases often risk their potential to make a fair recovery. An experienced injury attorney can help a client prepare for the complexity of a personal injury case while avoiding the mistakes above. Call today or visit chrisrichardattorney.com to schedule a consultation today.
