One moment you are going about your day, and the next you are on the ground, in pain, and unsure of what to do. A slip and fall accident can change everything. You may be facing a pile of medical bills, calls from insurance companies, and pressure to settle your claim quickly. It’s a lot to handle while you’re trying to recover, but luckily, a slip and fall attorney can help ease the burden.
This blog will explain how working with a local Reno injury lawyer can help protect your future and assist you in seeking the compensation you may be entitled to.
Beware of Insurance Companies: Why a Fast Settlement Is Often a Lowball Offer
After an accident, you may receive a call from an insurance company with a settlement offer. While the idea of a quick settlement may be appealing, it is important to remember that an insurance company’s goal is to pay as little as possible. The first offer they extend may not reflect the full value of your claim.
Insurance companies may try to get you to sign a settlement agreement before you have a true sense of the full extent of your injuries. This can be a dangerous tactic because some injuries, especially those affecting soft tissue or the brain, may take time to become apparent. By signing a quick settlement before consulting with a slip and fall attorney, you could give up your right to seek additional compensation later if your medical needs increase.
Common Tactics Insurance Companies May Use
Insurance companies may use several tactics to minimize the value of your claim. Being aware of the mistakes to avoid in a personal injury claim can help you to maximize your settlement.
- The Blame Game: They may try to suggest that the accident was your fault, even if negligence is readily apparent. It is not unusual for someone who fell in a casino or on icy Reno sidewalks to get blamed for the fall.
- Delaying a Resolution: A common insurance tactic is to delay the process. As your bills pile up and you miss time from work, they may hope that you will become desperate and accept their low offer.
- Questioning Your Injuries: They can use parts of your medical record or things you post on social media to question your injuries and suggest they are not as severe as you say.
How Legal Representation Can Level the Playing Field
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect them. You deserve to have someone on your side, too. A skilled slip and fall attorney can change the entire dynamic of your claim.
A Strong Case Starts with Strong Evidence
Proving liability is key to any personal injury claim. A skilled slip and fall attorney knows how to gather evidence and build a strong case. This can include:
- Securing surveillance footage before it is deleted
- Interviewing witnesses
- Documenting the accident scene and your injuries
- Obtaining medical records and bills
- Hiring expert witnesses to explain the severity of your injuries
- Documenting the emotional toll and loss of enjoyment from the accident
This detailed investigation can help to show the insurance company that you are serious about your claim.
Your Attorney May Help Determine the True Value of Your Claim
When you have a lawyer working on your behalf, you can gain a better understanding of the true value of your claim, including factors the insurance company may not fully consider, such as:
- Long-term medical care and physical therapy
- Lost income, including reduced hours or forced job changes
- Pain and suffering
Your attorney can work to ensure that all of these costs are considered as part of a settlement offer.
If You Have Been Hurt, Here Is What to Do Next
If you have been injured in a slip and fall, consider these steps to help protect yourself and your claim:
- See a doctor and follow treatment: Your health is the most important thing. Get medical attention even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Keep photos and receipts: Keep a record of your medical bills and any other expenses related to the accident.
- Avoid giving recorded statements: Do not speak to the insurance company without a lawyer.
- Consult with a local attorney: Contact a lawyer for a free consultation before signing any documents.
Even if you are unsure about moving forward with a claim, a free consultation can provide the clarity and confidence you need to make an informed decision.
Timing Matters: Do Not Delay
Acting quickly after a slip and fall is crucial. Nevada has a two-year statute of limitations (Nev. Rev. Stat. § 11.190(4)) for personal injury claims. This means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may not be able to seek compensation.
Evidence also may not last forever. Witnesses can forget details, property owners can fix hazards, and security footage is often deleted within a few days. The sooner that you contact a lawyer, the sooner they can work to preserve this critical evidence.
Why People in Reno Choose Jensen Personal Injury Law
At Jensen Personal Injury Law, we have been helping people in Reno for decades. Our legal team is led by Bob Jensen, a board-certified personal injury specialist. He has over 40 years of experience and has a reputation as a trial lawyer who is willing to go to court. This reputation often helps us achieve excellent results for our clients.
We are dedicated to our clients and fight for their best interests. We listen, explain every step of the process, and are here when you need us.
A Quick Settlement May Cost You More Than You Think
The information provided on this site is for general information purposes only. The information you obtain at this website is not, nor is it intended to be, legal or medical advice. You should consult an attorney or doctor for advice regarding your own individual situation. Use of this website or submission of an online form does not create an attorney-client relationship.