What are the steps you need to take if you're hurt due to someone else's actions or inactions? Personal injury claims can help you get the compensation you need to take care of yourself and your family. Here are the things you can do to make sure your claim is filed on time and has the best chance for success.
The first thing you need to do is to make sure you take care of yourself. If you're hurt, go to the emergency room or the hospital for treatment. You are the most important factor, so treatment is necessary. Keep the medical information you receive, since you may need it later in your case.
Next, it's time to collect evidence. See if you can get photos from the police of the scene of the accident, or take photos yourself before you go to the hospital. Take notes and describe what happened in the accident; as time passes, your memory may become hazy, so do this as soon as possible.
Next, be sure to collect as much information about the other involved parties, witnesses and others. You'll want to get insurance information, addresses, phone numbers and other vital contact information.
If you're planning to file a lawsuit, it's okay to tell the other party that you plan to do so. Remember that there is a time limit on your case; if the statute of limitations runs out, you won't be able to file a claim. You may have as little as 30 days or several years to file a lawsuit depending on your injury and who caused it.
Source: FindLaw, "First Steps in Personal Injury Claim," accessed April 01, 2016