Personal injury claims can be confusing and difficult to navigate. Every year, millions of Americans suffer injuries due to the negligence of others. According to a recent study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 52% of cases are filed for injuries sustained in car accidents, 5% for product liability and 15% for medical errors. However, only 70% of accident victims receive the full compensation they deserve. By taking the proper steps after an accident and hiring a personal injury lawyer like Steve Pisman, from Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, you can maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Document The Scene And Report The Incident
If you are injured in an accident, the first thing you should do is document the scene. Take photos of any unsafe conditions that may have contributed to the incident. Get contact information for any witnesses who saw what happened. You’ll also want to get a copy of any police reports filed for the incident. Reporting the injury creates an official record that can support your claim later.
Get Medical Treatment Right Away
It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you don’t think you were seriously hurt at first. Not only does this create a record of your injuries, but delaying treatment can negatively impact your health and raise doubts about the validity of your claim. Be completely honest with doctors about your symptoms and follow all treatment plans. Keep all receipts for medical expenses and records from health providers documenting your injuries.
Consult A Personal Injury Attorney
An experienced personal injury lawyer who understands the claim process and applicable laws. They can evaluate your case, determine viable legal claims, negotiate a fair settlement, and take the claim to trial if necessary. Personal injury lawyers typically work on contingency, meaning you only pay if they recover compensation for you. A good lawyer advocates aggressively so you receive full compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Document All Losses Related To The Injury
In addition to medical expenses, keep records of other accident-related costs like property damage, lost income from missed work, costs for hiring help during recovery, and any other monetary effects of the injury. Quantifying all your losses strengthens the case for the total compensation you deserve.
Be Realistic About The Value Of Your Personal Injury Claim
Temper your expectations and be realistic about what your claim is worth. Consider the severity of your injuries, the strength of evidence against the other party, and potential legal limits on compensation. Listen to your lawyer’s assessment of a fair settlement amount. Recent data shows that around 50% of people claiming for a personal injury will receive between $3000 and $25,000. While you want full compensation, overstating your demands could stall or derail negotiations.
Suffering an injury can be devastating, both physically and financially. By taking the right steps immediately after an accident, consulting a qualified personal injury attorney, and staying realistic in negotiations, you can maximize your chances of getting the compensation you need to move forward after a serious injury. Being proactive and diligent in collecting evidence and documenting your damages will enable your lawyer to build the strongest case possible on your behalf.
