If you've been injured in an accident, you need to take action as soon as possible. The actions you take following your accident will determine whether you receive fair compensation for your injuries. To make sure you receive a fair and adequate settlement, it's important that you take the appropriate steps. Unfortunately, missing steps, or making other mistakes during the process could undermine your ability to receive the compensation you're entitled to. Here are four mistakes that could harm your case in the long run.

Representing Yourself

After your accident, the insurance company is going to be contacting you about your claim. You may even have attorneys contacting you about the case. This is particularly true if the responsible party is trying to pass blame, or deny responsibility. Don't take chances with your case. The worst thing you can do is try to represent yourself. If you've been injured in an accident, you need to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Avoid talking to the insurance company, or the other party's attorney, until you have your own legal representation.

Admitting Responsibility

If you've been injured in an accident, never admit responsibility – even if you think you're at least partially responsible for the injuries you've sustained. There may be information that you're not aware of. Admitting responsibility could jeopardize your case and make it difficult for you to receive adequate compensation. Talk to your attorney about the case, and let them work to determine who is ultimately responsible for the case.

Ending Medical Treatment Too Soon

If your doctor has ordered treatment for the injuries you've sustained, it's important that you follow through with the treatment plan. Failing to complete your treatment could be used against you during the settlement negotiations, especially if the insurance company uses the information to try and mitigate the severity of your injuries. To ensure proper healing, and protect your right to compensation, be sure to follow your doctor's orders.

Missing the Deadline

Once you're injured in an accident, you have a specific amount of time to file a claim. This is called the statute of limitations. You might not realize this, but the statute of limitations began as soon as you were injured. Unfortunately, if you miss the filing deadline without that knowledge, you will forfeit your right to compensation. Don't lose your right to compensation. Be sure you file your paperwork on time.

If you've suffered injuries due to another person's actions, make sure you get the compensation you're entitled to. For other questions and concerns about your case, be sure to speak to a personal injury attorney near you.

For more information on personal injury cases, contact businesses such as Dunbar & Dunbar.