5 Reasons To Promptly File An Injury Claim
It’s natural to focus first on physical recovery and getting back to normal life after sustaining an injury. Yet waiting too long to take legal action can have serious consequences. In Maryland, delays in filing a personal injury claim can create significant obstacles, both legal and practical. Have a conversation with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer to discuss how delaying action could have an impact on your case.
#1 The Statute of Limitations May Expire
The most pressing concern with delaying an injury claim is Maryland’s statute of limitations. In most personal injury cases, victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing the legal right to pursue compensation entirely. While three years may sound like plenty of time, evidence collection, medical treatment, and settlement negotiations can take months.
#2 Evidence Can Be Lost or Destroyed
Strong injury claims rely on timely, detailed evidence. Unfortunately, this evidence can fade or disappear quickly. Businesses may delete old video recordings and accident scenes change over time. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to reconstruct what happened and prove liability.
#3 Insurance Companies May Use Delays Against You
Insurance adjusters are trained to look for reasons to minimize payouts. If you delay seeking treatment or filing a claim, they may argue that your injuries aren’t serious. Or that they weren’t caused by the accident at all. A gap between the accident and your first medical visit can be used to suggest your pain is unrelated or exaggerated. Filing your claim promptly shows that you took the incident seriously and establishes a clear link between the event and your injuries.
#4 Medical Bills and Lost Wages Can Pile Up
There are financial consequences, too. As medical expenses and lost income accumulate, you may find yourself under increasing pressure to accept a low settlement just to cover immediate costs. Filing your claim early allows your attorney to begin negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, pursue litigation to recover fair compensation before debt becomes overwhelming.
#5 Witness Cooperation Can Decline Over Time
Witness testimony can make or break an injury claim, but as time passes, witnesses may move away, forget details, or become reluctant to get involved. Early legal action allows your lawyer to secure signed statements while memories are still fresh, strengthening your case for fair compensation.
The reality is even a short delay can complicate your path to recovery. Consulting with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer soon after an accident ensures that your rights are protected. As soon as your attorney is familiar with the facts of your case, they will move to preserve evidence. The sooner your lawyer can begin building your case, the better your chances of securing the financial relief you deserve.
Is it time for you to begin the process of filing an injury claim? Connect with the attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP to discuss your options and move forward with confidence. Contact us to book a confidential appointment.
