How Does COVID-19 Impact Your Personal Injury Case?

In the wake of COVID-19, reduced driving has led to fewer accidents and even fewer accident injuries caused by car accidents, slip and falls and dangerous workplace conditions. Still, there are many people who are either suffering from injuries incurred prior to COVID-19 or have experienced an injury during the pandemic.

For personal injury victims in San Diego, COVID-19 presents a number of challenges that could stand in their way of pursuing a full financial recovery. Insurance companies may attempt to delay their claims, diminish the value of their case, or simply outright deny claims during this time.

By taking a proactive approach to dealing with your accident injuries and working with a San Diego personal injury attorney, these challenges to financial recovery may be overcome.

Settling a Personal Injury Case During COVID-19 in San Diego

With businesses being forced to shut down, many California residents have experienced financial hardship caused by COVID-19. It is possible that this hardship can create pressure for victims, defendants and insurers to settle cases in the coming months.

For accident victims, settling a personal injury case during COVID-19 may bring much needed financial relief for them and their family. If you were recently let go from work, for example, compensation from a personal injury settlement could alleviate monetary concerns in the face of an uncertain financial future.

On the other hand, insurance companies may try to use this situation to seek quick settlements that do not cover the full extent of your loss. COVID-19 may also create a more litigious atmosphere where insurance companies are motivated to diminish the value of personal injury claims in an effort to protect their profit margins.

If you have been injured in an auto accident and are unsure of how you will pay for your medical bills, housing and other costs, it may be tempting to accept a quick settlement offer from an insurance company during this time. But before you do, you should consult with an attorney prior to signing any documents to ensure that you receive compensation for the full extent of your losses.

Receiving Medical Care for Injuries During Coronavirus

Seeking and receiving medical treatment after an accident is critical to maintaining the viability of a personal injury claim. Seeking and receiving proper medical care for your injuries will help you maximize the financial compensation you are due after an accident. Medical documentation, for example, will help your attorney prove the extent of your injuries and financial loss. 

During COVID-19, you may be reluctant to seek medical treatment for your personal injuries or visit your healthcare provider for ongoing treatment. If possible, you should keep your current medical appointments and continue to follow recommended treatment plans while maintaining safe social distancing. In many cases, telehealth is possible where visits with medical professionals can be virtual. You may be able to continue physical therapy sessions via teleconferencing as well.

Contact a San Diego Personal Injury Lawyer

During COVID-19, it is important to continue to seek medical treatment, follow treatment plans, and work with your attorney to develop a strong personal injury case. If you have been recently injured in an accident, you should seek medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible and speak with a San Diego personal injury attorney about how a personal injury case can help you recover compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering.