When you sustain a spinal cord injury (SCI) and another party is at fault, you may have to prove it in order to receive compensation. While liability looks obvious to you, insurance agents are experienced at attempting to shift blame. They’re good at making low-ball offers sound good.
For this reason it’s a good idea to be aware of the true cost of your injury and disability, mindful of how you portray yourself post paralysis, and informed about the process of hiring an attorney that’s right for your case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Injury include:
Accepting an Early Settlement Offer
Insurance companies frequently offer quick, “lowball” settlements before the full extent of long-term medical needs and costs are realized. SCI is expensive. Money disappears fast when you’re handing it over just to have assistance with activities of daily living. There’s accessible transportation, future surgeries, home modifications, and a host of additional expenses involved when you live with SCI.
Then there’s your pain and suffering, and the loss of your career in many cases. Settling for less than you’re entitled to just to receive funds fast is a common mistake. Paralysis is permanent and the costs just keep coming. Holding out for an amount you are entitled to is important.
Not Knowing What (And What Not) To Document
When you’re going through a lawsuit or settlement process it’s important to document the challenges. Keeping a detailed log of how the injury limits activities can strengthen your case of “pain and suffering” and other non-economic damages.
On the other side of that coin, be mindful of how you represent yourself on social media. Posted photos or updates about recovery or social outings can be used by defense attorneys to argue that the injury is less debilitating than claimed.
Hiring a Generalist Lawyer
SCI cases require deep knowledge of catastrophic injury law and access to expensive experts. A general practitioner may lack the specialized resources. SCIs involve complex medical terminology, long-term prognosis assessments, and specific legal challenges.
You may want to find a team with a proven track record of handling catastrophic injury cases. Ask about verdicts or settlements in cases similar to yours. Make sure the firm has the financial ability to hire expert witnesses, such as life care planners, medical specialists, and accident reconstructionists. SCIs often lead to long legal battles lasting months or years so it’s important to choose someone who demonstrates genuine empathy for your situation.
At the Spinal Cord Injury Law Firm, our attorneys know SCI. We understand the real world cost of spinal cord injury. We’re committed to fighting for the compensation that you’re entitled to. Contact us today!
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