After a painful accident, it’s completely understandable that you may be disoriented and unsure of what to do next. This guide is here to outline a clear path to follow to protect yourself and your potential personal injury claim. Understanding the next steps to take after enduring a personal injury can provide clarity during a stressful time and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Keep reading to gain a clearer understanding of what to do following a personal injury.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
When handling a personal injury case, the importance of contacting a personal injury lawyer like this Chicago injury lawyer cannot be overstated. An attorney understands the complexities of these cases and can vigorously defend your rights, helping you to obtain the compensation you deserve. A good lawyer will assist you in navigating the legal process and dealing with insurance companies. They can ensure that all documents are correctly filed, negotiate settlements and represent you in court if the need arises. The key is getting an attorney that has handled cases similar to yours before and has a track record of success.
Research shows that individuals who hire a personal injury attorney generally receive higher settlements than those who negotiate their cases on their own. A lawyer can ensure that you’re adequately compensated for your medical bills, missed work, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve suffered as a result of your accident. If you’re concerned about the cost, you should know most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so their fee will be paid as a percentage of your settlement or judgment.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Before you do anything else, take care of your health. Seeking immediate medical attention should be your priority. Even if you think you’re fine, you need to see a doctor to make sure. Some injuries can take hours or even days to become evident, so getting checked out as soon as possible after your injury can greatly benefit you in the long run. Not only does this ensure any injuries are caught and treated quickly, but it creates a medical trail that can substantiate your personal injury claim.
Let your doctor know that you were in an accident, and tell them about any symptoms you’re experiencing, even if they seem relatively minor. If you don’t visit a doctor after your accident, it will be hard to argue that the accident caused your injury, and insurance companies may leverage this to reduce or deny your claim. If possible, try to document your injuries and medical treatment extensively. This includes getting copies of any medical reports, treatment plans, prescriptions, and bills. Start this process immediately, since there is likely to be a statute of limitations on your case.
Report the Incident to Your Insurance Provider
Depending on the nature of your accident, you may need to report the incident to your insurance provider. For instance, reporting is necessary for a car accident if you plan on filing a claim against your auto insurance policy. It’s important to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible after the incident. Seeing this will ensure your eligibility for coverage and protect your rights under the policy agreement. When speaking to your insurer, be honest but don’t speculate or give your opinion about what happened during the incident.
Also, don’t agree to provide a recorded statement until you’ve sought legal advice. It is integral to discuss your situation with a legal expert before proceeding with a case. Take note of details corresponding to your claim. Your policy number, the number and name of the insurance adjuster handling your claim, and any estimates you receive from the insurer. You should never admit fault or settle a claim without speaking to a lawyer first.
As you can see, enduring a personal injury can be a harrowing experience but knowing the appropriate steps to take afterward can ease your recovery process and safeguard your rights. Be proactive in seeking medical attention, documenting as much as you can about the incident and your injuries, reporting your incident to your insurance provider, and getting in contact with a personal injury lawyer. These steps will place you in a stronger position to get the compensation you deserve. Remember to always seek professional advice before proceeding with any legal action.
Jim Pullman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community.