How the Coronavirus Pandemic has Affected Personal Injury Cases

Many industries have shifted as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, ours being no exception. If you have suffered an injury before or during the coronavirus pandemic, you should proceed with your claim as usual. However, keep in mind the following changes that may affect you:

An increase in financial pressure

Many of us are feeling a financial burden like never before as we head into 2021. Knowing this, insurance companies may be trying to lowball settlement offers in the hopes that if you are in financial distress, you will take the first number they throw at you. 

Hard-to-find medical treatment

One of the most important parts of a personal injury case is establishing the actual injury and proving damages, which may include the cost of the medical treatment and how permanent the injury is. This is typically proven through medical records. With that being said, during the pandemic, non-critical healthcare may have to wait.Medical treatment may not be as readily available as before or may be virtual.

Court delays and slowdowns

While your case may settle, there is a chance it could go to court or that you may have to attend at least one hearing or meeting involving the court. As with many businesses and organizations around the country, the court systems in every state look much different than they did a year ago. There may be delays in the court-based portion of your case, or you may be asked to appear virtually.

Remote interactions

Speaking of remote interactions, your legal team may ask you to appear virtually for meetings or other interactions.

What should you do if you sustain an injury during the pandemic?

Even though we are in the middle of a pandemic, your personal injury case can still be resolved by following the right steps. Keep these tips in mind:

• Seek counsel as soon as possible. Personal injury attorneys are staying up-to-date on all aspects of the legal system and how it is affected by the pandemic. They are equipped to advise you on what steps to take and when.
• Seek medical treatment in whatever way you can, whether it be in person or virtually.
• Do not delay your claim due to financial burden or for any other reason. Even through the pandemic, the statute of limitations still applies. Keep in mind that most attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they don’t get paid until you win your case.
• Expect court system delays, slowdowns, and closures.
• Be flexible and open to virtual meetings and interactions.
• Be patient with your claim and don’t necessarily take the first offer an insurance company throws your way. Listen to your attorney who will point you in the right direction in order to help you obtain the maximum reward.

Have you been recently injured due to someone else’s negligence? Contact the attorneys at LaSalvia Law. We will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.