Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in an accident, it can be overwhelming to know what steps to take to file a personal injury claim. Remember the following tips so that you can understand what to do if you are ever in a personal injury accident and need to protect your rights.
Seek medical attention immediately
The first and most important step after an accident is to seek medical attention for your injuries. Even if you feel okay, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to ensure that there are no underlying injuries that could worsen over time. Medical records are key pieces of evidence that will greatly strengthen your claim.
Document the accident and injuries
As soon as you are able to, photograph the accident scene as well as your injuries. Take photos of the scene and any visible injuries, get contact information from any witnesses, and keep all relevant paperwork, such as police reports and medical bills.
Consult with a personal injury lawyer
It’s highly recommended to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If you are having difficulty understanding your legal rights and what they entail, a lawyer can give you a deeper explanation.
File your claim within the statute of limitations
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies across states. It’s important to file your claim within this timeframe to avoid losing your legal rights to recover compensation. Your personal injury lawyer can help you understand the statute of limitations that applies to your case and ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner.
Don’t speak with insurance adjusters without a lawyer present
After you report your accident to the insurance company, you will follow up with an insurance adjuster who will ask you to provide more information. It’s important to avoid giving a recorded statement or discussing the details of the accident with them without first consulting with a personal injury lawyer. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and anything you say could potentially be used against you.
Keep track of all expenses and losses
If you want to maximize your damages, you will want to preserve all records and keep track of your complete expenses, as a personal injury lawyer like one from Malibu Legal can tell you. This may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. You should also document any pain and suffering you experience as a result of your injury.
Be honest and transparent about your injuries
It’s important to be honest and transparent about your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. A lawyer will understand the full scope of your injuries so they will know how to calculate the right compensation amount you deserve.
Don’t settle for less-than-fair compensation
Insurance companies may offer a settlement early in the claims process in an attempt to minimize their payout. It’s important not to accept a settlement offer without fully understanding your legal rights and the true value of your claim. A lawyer can work on negotiating a settlement that reflects what you are entitled to receive.
If you want to file a claim, contact an experienced lawyer immediately following an accident to get started.
