There are things you can do to help your insurance claim or lawsuit. There are also things you could do that may come back and hurt you. You need to know the rules, so you won’t break them without realizing it.
Don’t commit fraud
Intentionally inventing an accident or inflating the harm suffered due in an accident is a crime. If insurance fraud is something you’re interested in doing, I want nothing to do with you. Stop yourself before you do something criminal and stupid. Just don’t do it.
You have the right to remain silent
That’s part of your Miranda rights if you’ll hear after your arrest. They’re supposed to remind you of your constitutional rights not to incriminate yourself and to consult with an attorney. When it comes to insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits, remaining silent is a necessity when it comes to talking to people about the accident and your injuries. If friends, family members, or total strangers ask you about these things, don’t say anything that could haunt you in the future. Whatever you say could potentially be used by the insurance company to deny your claim or seek a dismissal of your lawsuit.
Put your hands up and step away from social media
The same applies to social media posts. One of the first things an insurance company investigator will check out is your social media accounts. Don’t discuss your accident, injuries, what you can or can’t do due to your injuries. Don’t tell the insurance company about all the pain you’re suffering and the fact you can’t get out of bed most days, then post photos of you motorcycling or having a great time with friends at your favorite bar. If you do, the value of your claim will sink to about zero and you’ll hear more accusations of fraud.
Do what your doctor tells you to do
Unless you want to be accused of “milking” your injury, follow your doctor’s advice. Go to physical therapy and do the exercises you’re told to do. If surgery is suggested, think hard before you say no. You need to put effort into your recovery. You must be a “reasonable” patient. Ask questions of your healthcare providers. If you honestly don’t think the course of treatment is right for you, get a second opinion. I can help you see excellent doctors who can give you the best chances of a full recovery.
Look for another job
If you lost your job because of your injury, unless you’re totally disabled and unable to work, you need to try to find another job. The economy is terrible, but you still need to make an effort and document what you’re doing and who you’re talking to. If part of your claim is lost wages, you need to try to find a new job. If you sofa surf all day instead, count on those lost wage claims disappearing.
You have to be smart to have a successful personal injury claim. I’m here to help you get the fair compensation you deserve for your injuries. But I can’t do that by myself. I need your help. Contact The Fleck Firm for a free consultation at (270) 446-7000. We’ll talk about the accident, your injuries, the law, and your best options to proceed. Insurance companies have lawyers. You should have one too.
