Accidents happen all the time, whether on the road, at work, or in public places. Unfortunately, accidents often result in injuries that can cause significant pain, suffering, and financial burden. In the US alone, 38 million emergency room visits in 2020 were due to unintentional injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The usual causes of these injuries were slips and falls, getting struck by a flying or falling object, vehicle-related accidents, and sports-related incidents.
If you are one of these unlucky people who got hurt because of someone else’s fault, you deserve to get paid for your losses. But getting paid is not always easy. You may have to deal with insurance companies who want to pay you as little as possible. You may have to prove who caused the accident and how much it affected you.
If no fair settlement is presented, there may be a chance that the case is brought to court. Parties involved may have to deal with the issue of what are pre-existing conditions and how they affect your claim, among other things.
This article will provide tips on ensuring you get the rightful compensation you deserve for your accident injuries.
- Record Relevant Information About The Accident
While still at the accident scene, you should record any relevant information to help your case. For instance, you should:
- Take pictures or videos of the incident’s location and condition, any property damage, and your physical injuries.
- Collect the name and contact details of the negligent party and their insurance information.
- Note down the name and contact details of any witnesses.
You should also call the police immediately. They’ll ask you to write a statement. After providing that, ask them to give you a copy of your police report. Additionally, note the officer’s name, badge number, and contact details. Recording important data while at the accident scene is essential because you may forget vital details that could help you.
- Get Checked By A Doctor
Seeking medical attention after an accident is crucial for your health and your legal rights. Some injuries may not be obvious or may worsen over time, so it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible. This way, you can prevent further complications and get proper treatment.
Moreover, seeing a doctor can help you prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. This is important if you want to file a claim for compensation from the liable party or their insurance company. Without medical records, you may have a hard time proving the injuries and getting a fair settlement.
For example, if you suffered a whiplash injury in a collision accident, it’s possible that pain may not manifest until several days or weeks after the incident. If you don’t see a doctor immediately, you may lose valuable evidence linking your injury to the accident.
If you have pre-existing conditions, they may affect your claim depending on how they are related to your accident injuries. Suppose you have a pre-existing condition of a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease in your spine. This condition may cause discomfort but does not prevent you from working or doing your daily activities.
However, if you are involved in a car accident that causes a sudden impact on your spine, your pre-existing condition may be aggravated by the accident. This means that your discomfort may increase, or you may develop new symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs. In this case, you may be entitled to compensation for the aggravation of your pre-existing condition caused by the accident.
- Gather Copies Of Your Medical Records
Also, get copies of the medical documents before and after the accident. Your doctor may ask you to go for regular check-ups, or they may provide treatment. Follow their instructions, take your medicines, and attend therapy if necessary. Details about all this can be the only way to prove how the injuries from the unfortunate incident affected you.
Medical bills are also crucial here. They’ll show how much money you’ve used for treatment, how much you continue spending, and the cash you may need in the future for your injuries. This information can help in determining just compensation.
- Find An Attorney
Finding an attorney after an accident can be very beneficial for your claim. An attorney can help you with your claim by:
- Evaluating your injuries and damages and advising you on your legal rights.
- Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf and fighting for a fair settlement.
- Gathering evidence and witnesses to support your claim and prove liability.
- Representing you in court if necessary and advocating for your best interests.
An attorney can also help you avoid common mistakes that could hurt your claim, such as signing a release without understanding its consequences, missing deadlines, or accepting a lowball offer.
Thus, the experts at Tucker Law strongly recommend seeking guidance from experienced lawyers, as their expertise and knowledge of the legal system can significantly benefit your case. Their support and representation will help you navigate the complexities and increase your chances of achieving the best possible outcome.
The sooner you find an attorney after an accident, the better. This way, you can protect your rights and get started on your claim as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Getting fair compensation after an accident can be challenging and stressful. However, following these steps can increase your chances of receiving the money you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Remember that you don’t have to go through this process alone. An attorney can help you every step of the way and make sure that you get what you deserve.
