After getting an injury, you may file a claim so the at-fault party can offer compensation. But before you proceed, you'll need guidance from a personal injury lawyer to increase your chances of a fair settlement.

A productive and open lawyer-client relationship will help the lawyer understand the case and determine how you'll get fair compensation. Thus, clear communication and honesty with your personal injury lawyer are needed.

Here are essential details you must disclose to your lawyer. 

Pre-Existing Injuries and Illnesses

As you file a personal injury claim, the attorney will enquire about your medical history, including all illnesses, injuries, and health issues, even if they appear unrelated to the current case.

Since it's difficult to predict what medical information will be helpful or damage your claim, you should share your whole medical history. You want the attorney to be ready to defend the claim since the defense team or insurance company may argue that your current injury relates to a pre-existing condition.

Your lawyer will analyze the medical records and identify the differences between the old and new injuries, then build a solid case. So, share all the medical records to ensure the facts work for you and not against you.

Previous Claim Details

The personal injury attorney also needs to know about any past injury claims you have made and whether they were successful. Most insurance providers and defense lawyers can decide to use such information to discredit your current case.

So, you should share all the details with your lawyer to ensure they have more information about your previous claims than the other party. Remember, defense attorneys and insurance providers can access claim history from national databases, so your lawyer should be more informed. The details can be the difference between a successful or failed claim.

Criminal History

Although most people like to hide their criminal history, there are instances when this may not be favorable. Before you file a personal injury claim, share your criminal history with the attorney.

The defense attorneys and insurance companies may use your criminal history as a focal point to oppose the settlement during trial. So, lay out all the cards so the lawyer can formulate a solid plan and prepare you to answer questions during the trial.

While hiring a personal injury lawyer will increase your chances of a fair settlement, you shouldn't withhold vital information from them. Remember, you are a team and have lawyer-client privileges, so disclose as much information as needed.

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