If you have been hurt in Kitsap or Thurston County and it was do to someone else’s negligence, you likely need an experienced Personal Injury lawyer. If you are unsure about whether you need a lawyer, you should still be concerned about steps to take that will improve your case or, at the very least, not lower your chances for a fair settlement. Insurance adjusters are tricky so it is important you take proper steps after an accident!
Why The Amount of Money You Get Matters
When you’ve been injured in an accident, what you do in the days and weeks afterward can make or break your case. Many people don’t realize that small missteps—like skipping doctor appointments or posting the wrong thing on social media—can seriously reduce the value of a potential settlement. The problem with harming your case is that you may not get enough money to cover your current medical expenses and certainly risk getting money for future care or lost wages. The beginning of a case sets the tone for how successful the end of the case will be.
Here are some practical tips from our personal injury team to help you protect your case and possibly increase your compensation.
Car Accident or Other Injury Victims In Kitsap or Thurston County Should Get Medical Treatment Right Away
Insurance companies look closely at how soon you sought care and whether you followed your doctor’s advice. Delaying treatment or skipping follow-ups can be used against you. Consistent medical records help prove that your injuries are serious and connected to the accident.
Without proper records, it is nearly impossible to prove to a jury that claims for injuries as well as pain and suffering is appropriate. Furthermore, any compensation for lost wages or impact to your career needs to be based on injuries directly-related to the accident. Attorneys use medical records and doctor reports to substantiate this relationship.
Watch What You Say to Insurance Adjusters
You are not required to give a recorded statement to the at-fault party’s insurance company, and doing so could be risky. They are trained to ask questions in ways that may minimize your claim. They will use your first statements later to claim you were not very injured. The problem is that many injuries are found later by doctors and imaging. Those first statements carry weight in a trial so it is best to avoid speaking to the at-fault insurance adjuster before you consult with a personal injury attorney.
Avoid Posting About Your Case on Social Media
Even innocent posts can be used against you. Photos of you out with friends or engaging in activities—even if you’re in pain—can be misinterpreted to suggest you’re not injured. It’s safest to avoid posting anything related to your health, activities, or the accident until your case is resolved.
Document Everything
Keep a journal of your injuries, pain levels, emotional distress, and how your daily life has changed since the accident. Save all receipts for medical bills, prescriptions, mileage to appointments, and any out-of-pocket expenses. These records support the full value of your damages.
Be Honest With Your Doctors
Don’t exaggerate your symptoms—but don’t minimize them either. Be accurate and thorough in describing your pain and limitations. Your medical records will play a major role in determining the value of your claim. Doctors for the insurance company can spot “malingering” signs and that will be used against you to assert all of your injuries are fake.
Don’t Settle Too Quickly
Insurance companies often offer a quick, low settlement hoping you’ll accept before realizing the full extent of your injuries. Once you settle, you cannot go back for more money. Always speak to a personal injury attorney before accepting any offer. Even if you are upside down financially-speaking after you settle, you do not get to seek more money once a Release is signed.
Hire an Experienced Kitsap or Thurston County Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating a personal injury claim on your own is risky and local matters. From local treatment agencies that will hold bills to understanding local courts and juries, it is important to hire someone very familiar with the area where you were injured. A local knowledgeable injury lawyer will know how to position your case for the best possible outcome—whether through settlement or trial.
Have Questions About Your Case?
Our personal injury lawyers help car accident and other injury victims in Kitsap County and Thurston County as well as cities throughout Washington. We understand your rights and get the best outcomes for our injured clients. We have been helping clients for nearly 25 years and we want to help you get the best outcome. Protect your rights and your personal injury case by getting a free consultation.
Call our Kitsap & Thurston County Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, reach out today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options and make sure you don’t leave money on the table that you may need for medical care or lost wages. We are here 7 days a week to help. (360) 792-1000
Witt Law Group handles cases in the City of Olympia, City of Lacey, City of Tumwater and Thurston County as well as Kitsap County and the nearby cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Bainbridge Island, and Kingston. We have been successfully defending our clients’ rights for over 20 years. Call to get help today. (360) 792-1000
We have won numerous awards, including Best of West Sound. We are proud to be the “go to” personal injury lawyers in Kitsap and Thurston counties. Call to get help today. (360) 792-1000
Get help now
Whether you choose to handle your case alone or engage the Witt Law Group, being informed and prepared is essential. Early involvement of an attorney can significantly impact your chances of a fair recovery, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle negotiations with insurance adjusters to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
