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Jonesboro, a thriving city in northeastern Arkansas, is known for its welcoming community, strong economy, and vibrant culture.
But like any other place, it sees its share of accidents—whether from car crashes, slip and falls, or other incidents.
When injuries happen, the path to compensation can be long and complex.
That’s why many turn to the Jonesboro personal injury attorneys from Levar Law to protect their rights and maximize their claims.
Unfortunately, some individuals unknowingly sabotage their own cases.
Here are five common mistakes that can ruin your chances of receiving fair compensation after an injury.
1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After an accident, your first instinct might be to “shake it off” or wait to see if the pain subsides.
But delaying medical care can be detrimental to your health and your case.
Insurance companies often argue that gaps in treatment suggest your injuries aren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
Prompt medical treatment creates a documented timeline that links your injuries directly to the incident.
Even if you think your injuries are minor, getting checked by a doctor establishes an official record, which is vital when pursuing compensation later.
2. Not Documenting the Scene Properly
Evidence is everything in a personal injury case.
If you don’t collect enough details at the scene, you could lose critical information that supports your claim.
Taking photographs, gathering witness contact information, and obtaining official reports (such as police or incident reports) can strengthen your case significantly.
Relying solely on memory or assuming the other party’s insurance will “handle it” is risky.
Without proper documentation, it’s easy for facts to be twisted, and your version of events could be dismissed.
3. Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice
One of the biggest traps accident victims fall into is speaking directly to the other party’s insurance company without consulting an attorney.
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect the company’s bottom line, not your best interests.
They may record your statements, ask leading questions, or offer lowball settlements quickly after an accident.
Anything you say can be used against you later.
Even something as innocent as “I’m feeling better” can be taken out of context to suggest your injuries weren’t serious.
Always consult with a lawyer before engaging with insurers.
In today’s world, it’s natural to post updates about your life on social media.
But after an accident, this can come back to haunt you.
Insurance companies and defense attorneys often comb through claimants’ social media accounts looking for inconsistencies.
A smiling photo at a party or a post about going on a hike—even if taken before the accident—can be used to question your pain and suffering.
To protect your case, it’s best to avoid social media entirely or at least set strict privacy settings and refrain from sharing anything about your health, activities, or the case.
5. Settling Too Quickly Without Understanding the Full Impact
When medical bills start piling up and missed paychecks add stress, it’s tempting to accept the first settlement offer you receive.
But quick settlements often leave victims shortchanged, especially if future medical treatment, lost earning potential, or long-term pain and suffering aren’t factored in.
Once you accept a settlement, you usually can’t go back for more, even if your condition worsens.
A skilled personal injury attorney will evaluate the full scope of your damages and negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair outcome.
Conclusion
Personal injury cases are rarely straightforward, and the smallest misstep can undermine your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
From delaying medical care to talking too freely with insurers, each of these mistakes can cost you thousands—or even your entire claim.
That’s why it’s essential to work with experienced legal professionals who understand the system and advocate for your best interests.
The Jonesboro personal injury attorneys from Levar Law are equipped to guide you through each step, ensuring you avoid costly pitfalls and build a strong case from the start.
When your health, livelihood, and future are on the line, don’t leave your compensation to chance.
Know your rights, avoid these common mistakes, and seek the right help to secure the justice you deserve.
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