The last thing that people want to do when they have been hurt is to undertake extra stress. It takes a toll, both physically and emotionally, to experience and recover from a significant injury. There are many reasons why you should consult with an attorney very early in the process. Here are a few:
Witnesses are Gone
When you delay discussing your potential case with an attorney, your may lose the opportunity to secure and interview witnesses. There may have been witnesses that could have helped you who can no longer be located or used to assist your case. For example, if you were in an automobile accident and someone nearby saw the crash, their testimony could strengthen your case. Memory obviously fades with time and witnesses may no longer be able to testify with certainty to exactly what they had observed after the passage of time.
Evidence is Destroyed or Lost
Businesses often use security cameras and there are sometimes cameras facing the exterior that capture images of nearby roads. The footage from these cameras is often used by lawyers as evidence on behalf of their clients. At Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima , we sometimes use camera footage to assist in proving our client’s claims where there is a dispute as to how an auto accident occurred. The sooner your attorney can start your claim and obtain evidence like camera footage the better. Many businesses delete their footage within days.
If your potential claim is against a business, there may be emails, texts, or other electronic messages that would assist you in prosecuting your case. Waiting to file a claim or discussing the matter with an attorney can give wrongdoers time to “cover their tracks.” This type of tampering is unfortunately somewhat common. There are laws that can protect you if this occurs, but you need an attorney who is aware of these laws and how to apply them.
Delays or Gaps in Medical Treatment
Delaying medical treatment after an accident is almost always a mistake. Few people enjoy going to a hospital or a doctor and, as such, often delay getting medical treatment after an injury. Some people have high pain tolerance. Some people presume or hope their pain will go away or subside. Initial insignificant pain can sometimes turn into significant permanent pain. It’s important to seek professional medical attention close in time to the occurrence of the injury. Some injuries, take traumatic brain injuries, are not always obvious. If you don’t seek medical attention promptly and don’t have an experienced attorney on your side it can be difficult to draw a straight line back to the accident as the cause of that pain or injury. “Delays” or “gaps” in medical treatment are often used by insurance companies as a way to diminish the value of your claim.
It is best to be proactive when you have been the victim of an injury caused by another. Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima has several attorneys that specialize in representing injured persons and we have a proven track record of getting results for our clients. Don’t wait! Consult with an experienced attorney right away to best protect your potential claim, and your rights!