The process of filing a claim after an accident can be surprisingly complicated. There are numerous factors to manage, many of which can make or break your personal injury lawsuit's success. For instance, neglecting to seek medical attention immediately after the incident may invite doubt as to whether the event in question caused your injury. Yet, securing detailed documentation and hiring legal assistance can smooth the litigation process, among other essential tasks. When filing a personal injury claim, there are several critical steps to follow to ensure you are able to obtain the compensation that you deserve after your serious injury.
For the best results in filing your personal injury claim, follow the steps below.
1. Report The Incident
Depending on the type of incident that you have experienced, this step may vary. For instance, if you were injured in a slip and fall accident, you will need to report the accident to the property owner or manager. Personal injuries that result from work accidents, however, must be reported to your employer.
Regardless of who is responsible for receiving your incident report, this step must be done immediately. If possible, get your report in writing, as this will be the foundational piece of evidence in your lawsuit. Remember that police reports offer irrefutable evidence regarding your case's details, so always attain such documentation after your accident, if applicable.
2. Go To A Hospital
Whether you believe your injury is minor or severe, it is imperative that you seek medical attention following the accident. Neglecting to do so can result in your injuries becoming far worse due to a lack of care and will rob you of the opportunity to secure critical medical documentation that reflects your precise physical condition in the aftermath of your accident.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
This is most applicable to injuries sustained in car accidents since auto insurance policies often include coverage for bodily injuries. It is best to wait to discuss your injuries with your insurer after visiting a medical professional.
The physician's verification will provide conclusive proof that your condition is as you report, reducing the chances that your insurer will deny your claim or place you at fault in attempts to avoid a payout. Never provide a recorded statement to insurers without a lawyer present, as they are likely to use your words against you and deny you compensation.
4. Hire A Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer is critical to your success in recovering the necessary compensation to fund your recovery. These cases can quickly grow in complexity, especially when there are several types of damages and multiple parties involved. Further, your lawyer will know how to communicate effectively with the negligent party’s legal team and with your insurer, if applicable.
If there are any doubts regarding the validity of your personal injuries claim, your lawyer will overcome them by investigating your case thoroughly. Any evidence that is necessary to the development of your case will be secured, including witness and expert testimonies, dashcam or security camera video footage, medical records, and more. Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer right away to ensure your case's best possible outcome.
