September 30, 2014
When suffering from an injury due to an accident, you not only have to cope with the physical trauma, but also the financial burden. However, if your injuries are the result of another’s negligence, they are responsible to compensate you for any medical bills, loss of wages or emotional trauma. Here are the steps to take if you wish to file a personal injury claim:
After the Accident
After the accident, immediately start documenting everything. If possible, write down exactly how everything happened. As time goes by, our memories start to fade and become fuzzy. The defense will use this against you to try and strengthen their case. Having everything written down is the best way to remember the facts.
Try and gather as much evidence you can after the accident. Take photos of the scene, find eyewitnesses, and keep all medical records. The more evidence you are able to provide, the stronger your case will be.
Determine If You Have a Case
In order to file a personal injury claim, you will need to be able to prove negligence. Everyone has the responsibility to act carefully, and in a manner that will not cause injury to others. If a person acts in a careless manner, resulting in your injury, then you have the right to make a personal injury claim. In addition, employers can potentially be held liable for any accidents caused by their employee.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
It’s important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your injury.
Lawyers will help you negotiate with insurance adjusters or other legal parties. Handling the case alone can be intimidating, and you could end up settling for less than you really deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney will fight for you, as well as help you navigate the claim process.
Consider a Settlement
A court battle can be a lengthy and exhausting process, and while you are in court, medical bills can pile up, adding extra stress. This is why it is a good idea to try and settle out of court, before filing a complaint.
If a negotiation with the opposing party goes well and you reach a settlement, then you may never have to go inside a court room. If, however, they offer an insufficient settlement, the best option may be to move ahead with litigation.
Litigation
If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will move forward with litigation on your behalf. Even after this occurs, you may not have to go to court if your attorney is able to negotiate with the opposing party.
If you do end up in court for your personal injury claim, it is important to have an experienced attorney to represent your case. When you are facing medical bills, lost wages and mental distress, due to the incompetence or carelessness of others you deserve to be compensated. The longer you wait to move forward with your claim or litigation, the weaker your case may be. Don’t wait, call KLG today and hire an attorney to fight passionately for you.