The Answers You Need After A Personal Injury
When someone else’s reckless or negligent actions cause you to suffer serious injuries, you may have questions about what you need to do to maximize the compensation you deserve. There is a lot of information that can benefit you. Here are some of the more important answers you should have to your questions:
Should I accept the first settlement offer I receive?
The first offer that an insurance company gives you is rarely the best one you can get. Insurance companies often start with a lowball offer as a way to reduce what they have to spend to cover the costs of your injury.
What should I do after my accident?
Take plenty of pictures and videos of the accident, gather contact and insurance information of all involved parties, and call the police and an ambulance if necessary. These steps alone can improve your chances of maximum compensation and provide you with the professional help you need.
Do I need to see a doctor if I feel okay?
Even if you feel fine after an injury or accident, it may be possible that you received nonsurface injuries like nerve damage or a traumatic brain injury. Having a doctor check your health can catch potentially fatal injuries and establish a timeline of your health for any claims.
What should I say to the at-fault party?
If the party responsible for your injuries attempts to reach out to you to apologize, gather information, offer compensation, or for any other reason, avoid talking to them without your attorney present. If you say the wrong thing to the defendant in your claim, you can risk losing your settlement entirely. It is best to let an attorney speak on your behalf to avoid these errors.
How can I get my medical bills paid?
Many sources can help cover the costs of your medical expenses after an injury, including the at-fault drivers’ insurance, the driver themselves and your insurance. Your attorney can help you secure the compensation you need to cover the costs of your medical bills.
What should I bring to my first meeting with an injury attorney?
Bring anything that helps prove the facts surrounding your claim, including police reports, relevant receipts, insurance information, medical records, a written timeline of events, a copy of your paystub to confirm lost income, and any witness reports and contact information.
How can I afford a lawyer?
Personal injury attorneys can only collect payment from the compensation they earn for you. No matter the outcome of your claim, you do not have to pay anything out of your own pocket.
How is the value of my case decided?
The compensation you receive for your injuries is compiled of economic damages (bills, lost income, legal fees, etc.), noneconomic damages (pain, impairment, trauma, etc.), and punitive damages (extra damages that act as a punishment toward the liable party). Each case is unique, so the final value depends on the damages you experienced in your accident.
Do I need an attorney?
Trying to settle an injury claim without an attorney is extremely difficult. A skilled attorney can help you identify fair compensation values and avoid fatal mistakes and can advocate on your behalf while you recover from your injuries. Talk to an experienced personal injury attorney for the help you need in securing the best possible outcome in your claim.