Experiencing an injury can be a very traumatic experience. You might have suffered that injury due to negligence committed by another person or entity. If that’s the case, you should know that there are steps that you can take to protect yourself and your rights. Following these steps can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
An attorney with the McEwen Law Firm is standing by to help you obtain compensation for your suffering. You can call us at (800) 732-3070 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Make Sure Everyone Involved is Okay, and Call an Ambulance if Needed
The first thing you should do after an accident is to ensure everyone involved is okay. Call an ambulance right away so you can immediately get the treatment you need. It will also be a good idea to call the police to make a report. The police can help to determine who was at fault for the accident. They can also make sure that everyone is safe.
Contact the Police to File a Report
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to file a police report. The police report will document the accident and can provide powerful evidence. The report will also include the contact information for the at-fault party and any witnesses to the accident.
When you talk to the police, however, remember not to say anything that makes it seem you’re at fault. The officer is going to write down everything you say. If you admit blame, the insurance company will use that against you. It’s going to be very hard to get the money you deserve.
This doesn’t mean you should lie, of course. Just state the facts and leave it at that. Let the officer’s investigation determine who was to blame.
Take Pictures and Videos of the Scene
After an accident, taking pictures and videos of the scene is essential. It would be best to take pictures of any injuries you have sustained. These pictures can serve as evidence in your case to help establish who was at fault for the accident. The pictures can also show the extent of your injuries.
Record Your Statement
It would help if you also took the time to record your statement about the accident. This statement can include any details you remember, including the location, time of day, and weather conditions. You should also describe what happened and any injuries you sustained.
Try to keep a written or recorded journal of everything you’re going through in the days and weeks after the accident. Document your physical pain, as well as any emotional trauma you’re experiencing as well. Pain and suffering are part of what is known as “non-economic” damages. You may be able to obtain compensation for these damages and losses, such as lost wages and medical bills.
Get the At-Fault Party’s Contact and Insurance Information
Get the contact and insurance information for the at-fault party. This information includes their name, address, phone number, and insurance policy number. Your attorney will send the insurance company a demand letter. This letter will spell out how much the insurer owes you. It will also provide a starting point for negotiations.
Speak with Any Eyewitnesses
Eyewitnesses can provide valuable information about the accident. If there were any eyewitnesses to the accident, please take the time to speak with them. However, don’t worry too much if you can’t ask the witnesses what they saw. The most important thing will be to get their contact info. Your attorney can reach out and interview them later.
Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
Again, seek immediate medical treatment. Even if you feel okay at the time of the accident, some injuries may not show symptoms until later. By seeking medical treatment right away, you can ensure that any injuries are diagnosed and treated quickly. You must also keep all medical records related to your injuries. These can be used as evidence as well.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Finally, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned, skilled lawyer can work to help you to receive the compensation you deserve. They can also help you to gather evidence and build a strong case.
A personal injury attorney can also help you determine your case’s value. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf as well. They can also help you to understand your legal rights and options.
Don’t Worry About Cost
One of the most significant benefits of hiring a personal injury attorney is that they work on a contingency fee basis. A contingency fee means they only get paid if you win your case. The attorney’s fees will typically be a percentage of your compensation. This can be helpful if you’re concerned about the cost of hiring an attorney.
Protection From Insurers
Remember that the insurance company aims to pay out as little as possible. They may offer you a low settlement in an attempt to close the case quickly. However, accepting a settlement without consulting an attorney can be a mistake. An attorney can help you to determine if the settlement offer is fair. Your lawyer can help you to negotiate a better settlement if necessary.
In addition to helping you to receive compensation for your injuries, a personal injury attorney can also help guide you through all the complexities involved in the legal system. This can be especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process. An attorney can file legal documents, represent you in court, and help you to understand the steps that need to be taken to successfully pursue your case.
Contact the McEwen Law Firm
An attorney with the McEwen Law Firm will provide the aggressive representation it will take to help you obtain maximum compensation. If you would like to schedule a free evaluation of your case, you can use our online contact form, or you can give us a call at (800) 732-3070.