When you are injured in an accident, the hours, days and weeks after the accident are the most challenging. Not only do you have a deal with the pain and injuries that were caused by the accident, but you also have to deal with other factors such as loss of income, medical expenses, etc. However, as the victim of a car accident, you have the legal right to file a claim against the party that was negligent. You will also have a better opportunity to get more compensation for your claim if you follow these tips.
Call 911
You should call 911 immediately after you have been involved in a car accident. After you have been seen by a physician in the ER, you should also make a follow-up appointment with your regular physician.
Consult With A Personal Injury Lawyer
After you have been in a car accident where someone else was at fault, expect the insurance company of the negligent party to contact you for a statement. Avoid speaking with the insurance company at all costs. Tell the insurance adjuster that you will have your attorney get in touch with them. You can say that even if you have not yet hired an attorney.
Once you have had a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer, they will look over your claim and give you an estimate of the amount of money you can expect to receive in compensation. Keep in mind that every case is different, and the exact amount may be more or less than the lawyer initially quoted.
See Your Physician
As mentioned, you should make an appointment with your regular doctor as quickly as you can after the accident. During the exam, be sure to mention every pain or ache you have even if you think it is not directly related to the accident.
The lawyer will use your medical records to help build a case against the insurance company. The medical records will prove that the injuries you have sustained are the result of the accident. In addition, any treatments or prescriptions given to you by the doctor will also be included in the medical records. The records will serve as written proof that your injuries are the result of the negligent party.
Go To Your Appointments
Never miss or skip any of your doctor and/or therapy appointments. If you need additional appointments, make those appointments before you leave.
You will likely need therapy or chiropractic appointments at least twice a week for several months. Be sure to go to the doctor at least once a month even if you do not have an appointment.
If you need surgery, your injury claim is automatically more valuable. Also, if you are well enough to work, work as many hours as you can. Should your case go to trial, the judge and/or the jury will look more favorably towards your case if you show that you are independent and still willing to work.