Boise Car Accident Lawyer Discusses Four Commonly-Omitted Facts that Can Affect Your Claim
According to the Idaho Transportation Department, in 2012, there were 21,402 accidents in the state. Distracted driving and impaired driving fatalities increased from 2011 to 2012, affecting more lives. A car accident can result in serious injuries that can lead to months to years of rehabilitation expenses, time in recovery, and even lost wages. If you’ve suffered a serious injury in a car accident in Boise or Nampa, Idaho, you may be speaking to an auto accident lawyer about your case. A qualified personal injury lawyer will often ask you many questions in order to determine how much your claim is worth and to gather evidence about your accident. Yet, in the midst of the stresses and challenges you are facing, it may be easy to omit some important details that your lawyer will need to know in order to move forward properly with your case.
Here are four commonly-omitted facts that can affect your claim.
- Not telling your lawyer that you are suffering from prior injuries. A prior injury can be anything from a sports injury you sustained before your accident to a medical condition you may be suffering from now. It is important to let your auto accident attorney know about any injuries you may have had before your accident. Your lawyer can take precautions to make sure that medical records clearly reflect the injuries you had before your accident and differentiate these from the injuries related to your accident. If you don’t tell your lawyer about prior conditions, and these conditions are brought up by the defense in court, your case could be weakened or dismissed.
- Not mentioning psychological difficulties you may have been facing. According to the American Psychological Association, the leading cause of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in the general population is car accidents. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD can manifest itself in many ways, including insomnia, anxiety, recurrent memories or dreams, panic attacks, and avoidance. Getting proper treatment is important. Many victims may not even be aware that they are suffering from PTSD. It is important to talk to your personal injury lawyer about all effects of your car accident, including psychological ones, to ensure you get the care you need and deserve.
- Not showing your lawyer all documentation pertaining to the accident. Your lawyer will assist you in gathering the documents and evidence you need in order to make a strong claim. Having photos and medical records on hand can make the process much easier.
- Failing to mention whether there were witnesses to the accident. Witnesses can be a valuable asset to any car accident personal injury case. Contact witnesses who may be able to provide additional information and facts about the accident. If you were injured, your memory of events may be compromised. A witness can provide important testimony to strengthen your case.
There are many things to consider if you’ve been hurt in a car accident. A qualified personal injury lawyer in Nampa or Boise, Idaho can assist you through the sometimes complex claims process. You need a team of lawyers who can ask the right questions and put together the strongest case. The Law Office of Johnson & Lundgreen are personal injury attorneys who can assist you.
