10 Essential Steps to Take After an Injury to Build a Strong Personal Injury Claim
When you’ve been injured in an accident, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. However, the steps you take immediately following the incident are critical in building a strong personal injury claim.
Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of accident, following these steps can boost your chances of a successful claim so you receive the compensation you deserve.
Here’s a guide to what you should do after an injury.
1. Get Medical Attention ASAP
After an injury, the first thing you should do is get medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor at the time, it’s crucial to get a professional medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately visible such as concussions, stress fractures, and internal bleeding. However, if left untreated they can have serious implications.
A thorough medical examination not only protects your health but also serves as crucial evidence in your personal injury claim. Your personal injury lawyer will use your medical records to demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the treatment you require.
2. Document the Incident
Thorough documentation of the incident is essential for building a strong personal injury claim. As soon as possible, take detailed notes about what happened. Include the date, time, location, weather conditions, and any other relevant details. If possible, take photographs or videos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
These visual records can be powerful evidence when proving liability. Additionally, if there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information. Your personal injury lawyer may need to reach out to them for statements that can support your claim.
3. Preserve Evidence
In addition to documenting the incident, it’s important to preserve any physical evidence related to your injury. This might include damaged clothing, broken equipment, or any other items that were involved in the accident. Do not repair or discard these items, as they could be critical in proving your case. Your personal injury lawyer will likely want to inspect the evidence and may use it to demonstrate how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
4. Report the Accident
Reporting the accident to the appropriate authorities is another vital step. For example, if you were involved in a car accident, you should file a police report. In the case of a workplace injury, you should report the incident to your employer immediately. Not only is this required by law in many cases, but it also creates an official record of the incident. This report can be used as evidence to support your personal injury claim.
When speaking with authorities or filling out reports, stick to the facts and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
One of the most important steps you can take after an injury is to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney, such as those at Gelman Law, LLC, can help you navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Personal injury claims can be complicated, and having a skilled lawyer in your corner can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Your lawyer will also help ensure that you meet all filing deadlines and legal requirements, which is crucial for protecting your right to compensation.
6. Keep Detailed Records of Your Expenses
After an injury, it’s important to keep detailed records of all the expenses you incur as a result of the accident. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, travel expenses to and from medical appointments, and any other out-of-pocket costs related to your injury. Additionally, keep track of any lost wages if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
These records will be used to calculate the compensation you are entitled to in your personal injury claim. Your personal injury lawyer will need these documents to build a strong case on your behalf.
7. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Your Lawyer
After an accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters who will try to settle your claim quickly. While it may be tempting to accept a quick settlement, it’s important to remember that insurance companies are looking to minimize their payouts. Anything you say to an insurance adjuster can be used against you to devalue your claim.
Before speaking to any insurance representatives, consult with your personal injury lawyer. Your attorney can handle all communications with the insurance company and work to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
8. Don’t Settle Too Quickly
It’s understandable to want to move on from the stress and uncertainty of an injury claim, but settling too quickly can be a costly mistake. Initial settlement offers from insurance companies are often lower than what you may be entitled to.
Your personal injury lawyer will help you understand the true value of your claim by considering factors such as the long-term impact of your injuries, future medical costs, and pain and suffering. By being patient and allowing your lawyer to negotiate on your behalf, you increase your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve.
9. Understand the Statute of Limitations
Every state has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a personal injury claim. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file your claim within this time frame can result in losing your right to compensation.
This is why it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your injury. Your lawyer will ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed on time and that your rights are protected throughout the process.
10. Stay Consistent with Your Medical Treatment
Following your doctor’s advice and sticking to your prescribed treatment plan is not only important for your recovery but also for your personal injury claim. Consistent medical treatment demonstrates that you are taking your injuries seriously and are committed to your recovery.
Any gaps in treatment or failure to follow medical advice can be used against you. Remember, insurance companies are concerned with one thing and one thing only – their bottom line. To minimize payouts, they can argue that your failure to stay consistent with your medical treatment is a sign that your injuries were not as serious as you claimed.
During your recovery, make sure to take all prescribed medications and keep all your follow-up appointments, whether they be with your primary care physician, physical therapist, or other professional. Your personal injury lawyer will use your medical records to support your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Were You Injured in an Accident and Need Compensation? Contact Gelman Law for Experienced Personal Injury Representation in New Jersey
If you’ve suffered an injury and are seeking experienced legal representation, look no further than the personal injury lawyers at Gelman Law, LLC.
We are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today by calling 856-861-4236 or filling out our online contact form. Let Gelman Law guide you through the process and fight for your rights every step of the way. Your path to recovery starts here.
