Personal injury cases are the most common type of civil suit. Unfortunately, these cases are still intricate for an average person. Personal injury cases involve an incident where a person is injured due to someone else’s negligence.
If one is injured and believe another person is responsible for it-whether it is through a car accident, motorcycle accident, slip and fall, or medical malpractice-the responsible party needs to be held accountable and pay for damages. But one has to file a personal injury claim to get compensated.
But getting the most out of a personal injury claim can be challenging because one has to deal with insurance companies who will always want to lower the compensation one deserves. This article discusses the top tips that can help to maximize personal injury claim. Let’s delve into them.
- Seek medical attention immediately
When injured due to another party’s negligence, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. This is not only crucial for health but prompt medical documentation is vital evidence for a claim too. If the healthcare provider has given a treatment plan, one needs to adhere to it strictly. Insurance companies or defendant’s attorney can use missing appointments or failing to follow medical advice against the plaintiff to suggest their injuries are not that severe.
- Document everything
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to personal injury claims is failing to document everything. Documenting everything is crucial as it will provide evidence for building a solid case. Take photographs and videos of the accident scene. Capture details like vehicle positions in case of an accident, road conditions, visible injuries, and any other relevant information.
Also keep detailed records of all medical treatments, including emergency room visits, consultations, therapies, and medications. Document pain levels and progress in recovery. Lastly, collect the contact information of witnesses, as their testimonies can strengthen the case.
- Report the incident
After seeking medical attention and documenting everything, it is time to report the incident. Start by reporting the accident to the relevant authorities, such as the police, and obtain a copy of the police report. This document can help substantiate the claim.
After reporting the incident to the police, it is time to notify insurance claim about the accident. Provide them with basic information without delving into specifics or admitting fault.
- Consult a personal injury lawyer
This is one of the most significant tips for building a strong personal injury case. An experienced and qualified Edmonton personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable guidance that can help navigate the complexities of the legal process and avoid common mistakes that could affect case.
When hiring a personal injury lawyer, pay attention to their experience. Gauge that by asking how many years they have practiced personal injury law. The more the number of years, the more experienced they are. Also ask them if they have handled similar cases and the outcome. This can help determine the outcome of the claim. Lastly, read online reviews to see what people say about them. More positive reviews demonstrate reliability and expertise.
The best thing about personal injury lawyers is that they work on a contingency fee basis. This basically means they get paid after winning the case. After hiring the lawyer, direct all communication from insurance companies and other parties to him/her. This protects plaintiff from unintentionally making statements that could harm their case.
- Avoid social media
We live in a social media world where it is quite common to post anything going on in one’s life on social media accounts. However, in the aftermath of an accident, avoid commenting or speaking about the accident on social media. This may seem innocent, but it is a mistake that can bite later. The defendant’s insurance company or attorney may trawl through the social media accounts to see if they can find something to use against the plaintiff. So, plaintiffs are advised to be mindful of what they share because even innocent updates can be misinterpreted.
- Understand the value of the claim
When filing a claim, it’s good to value damages to help guide goals and expectations for settlement. When determining a claim’s value, calculate damages comprehensively, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Additionally, future medical costs and lost earning potential should be considered. Expert testimony from financial and medical professionals can help quantify these future damages.
- Don’t jump at the first offer
Insurance companies will often offer a quick settlement, which is usually way lower than the total value of a claim. Evaluate any offer made carefully and consult with a lawyer before accepting it. The plaintiff may be entitled to more compensation than was initially offered. Consider the long-term impact of injuries. Accepting a quick settlement might leave one without adequate funds for future medical expenses and ongoing care.
- Prepare for possible litigation
While most personal injury cases are settled out of court, being well-prepared for trial is advisable. This can strengthen the negotiation position. So, the plaintiff needs to familiarize themselves with the litigation process. If the case proceeds to a deposition, prepare adequately with a lawyer. Practice answering questions honestly and concisely. And in the courtroom, maintain a professional demeanor. Dress professionally and follow the lawyer’s guidance.
- Stay informed and involved
Lastly, stay informed about the progress of the case. Communicate with the lawyer regularly and ask for updates on any developments. Actively participate in the case by promptly providing requested documents, attending all necessary meetings, and preparing for deposition or trial. It is also important to educate oneself about personal injury law and rights. This can help one to make informed decisions throughout the case.
Wrapping it up
Navigating a personal injury case can be overwhelming and challenging, but by implementing the above tips, it is easy to strengthen the case and increase chances of receiving fair compensation.
