Five Things Not to Say to Your Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident, hiring a personal injury attorney helps you protect your rights and move your case forward. However, some things you say (or leave unsaid) could hurt your claim. Knowing what not to say helps you work with your lawyer so they can prepare the best possible case for you.
Why Choosing Words Wisely Matters
Ohio law places the burden of proof on the injured party, meaning you need to show how the other party caused your injury and the extent of your losses. If you give your lawyer incomplete or misleading information, it can create unnecessary hurdles. When you’re upfront and choose your words carefully, your attorney will have an easier time building the strongest case possible.
Five Key Things Never to Say to Your Personal Injury Lawyer
Here’s what to avoid saying (and doing) when you’re working with a personal injury attorney:
“I posted about it on social—people say I’ll win big.”
Anything you post online can be used against you. Insurance companies and defense attorneys monitor social platforms. Something as simple as a photo of you smiling with friends could be spun as evidence that your injuries are not serious. Even supportive comments from family and friends can cause problems.
“I feel fine—I don’t need medical treatment.”
You may not feel pain right away after an accident, but symptoms often appear hours or days later. Saying you feel fine, whether to the person who caused the accident, the police, a doctor, or your lawyer, can affect your case.
Medical records are key: they connect your injuries to the accident. Without documentation, an insurance company can argue that your condition isn’t serious or wasn’t caused by the accident. Always visit a doctor or emergency room as soon as possible after an accident, even if you really do feel okay.
“I’ll talk directly to insurance or settle myself.”
Saying you’ll handle things on your own may seem efficient, but it can put your claim at risk. Anything you say can be twisted to reduce or deny your compensation. A car accident personal injury lawyer or workplace injury attorney knows how to negotiate with insurers and fight tactics designed to limit your recovery.
“I figured you didn’t need to know that.”
Your lawyer should never be surprised by facts that come up during negotiations or in court. Whether it’s a pre-existing medical condition, a prior accident, or something you posted online, it’s always better to overshare. Surprises only benefit the insurance company or the defense.
“It happened a while ago, but I figured I’d deal with it later.”
Ohio’s statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. If you wait beyond that period, the court will likely dismiss your case. Delaying could mean you lose your chance to recover compensation.
What To Do Instead
Instead of saying the wrong thing, focus on protecting your case:
- Be honest. Provide your lawyer with clear, factual, and complete information.
- Seek medical treatment right away and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Tell your lawyer about any pre-existing conditions, prior accidents, and social media activity.
- Avoid speaking directly with insurance companies.
- Contact an accident law firm as soon as possible.
Contact Our Ohio Injury Attorneys to Learn More
By avoiding these common mistakes, you help your lawyer focus on building the strongest case possible. If you’ve been injured in an accident, reach out to Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, for a free consultation.
