Hi, my name is Kirsten Krueger and two years ago, I was in a car accident. I was stopped at a stop sign when the driver behind me slammed into my car. Due to my injuries, I had to spend a few days in the hospital and I was unable to work for two months. My medical care was expensive and without being able to work, I couldn't pay my bills. The car accident was stressful enough and then I had to worry about how I would pay my bills. After speaking with a car accident lawyer, it wasn't long before I was compensated for my medical bills and lost wages from work. I'm writing this blog to help others who have been a car accident and haven't received any compensation. As you read my posts, you'll learn how an attorney can help you if you're in a vehicle accident.
If you have been injured in an accident, it can be a confusing time and you might not be thinking clearly. Here is a simple list of three things you should do as soon as the accident happens to ensure you are covered if you need to make a personal injury claim.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney Immediately
Many people don't consult with a lawyer because they feel like it will cost them too much money, but a consultation by most personal injury lawyers is free. The accident lawyer will be able to sit down and go over your case one-on-one to explain how the law relates to your specific scenario. There are also many personal injury lawyers that will not charge a fee until they have reached a settlement on your case, and they don't get paid until you do.
Document Everything
If your case eventually goes to court you will want to have as much evidence as possible to support your claim. It is important to make sure that you have documented everything related to your personal injury, including a copy of the police report, photos of the physical injury, photos of the scene of the accident, and any notes from the doctor regarding the nature of your injuries. Submit everything directly to your lawyer to ensure they have as much ammunition as possible when they head into the court room to fight for your rights.
Don't Sign Anything Without Seeking Legal Advice
Often in personal injury claims, the liable parties will offer a quick one-time payment to clear them of a much bigger payment. When the release forms are signed, it means that they have fulfilled their legal obligation to you and they do not owe you anything else. Make sure that before you sign any release form or check that is issued that you had a chance to sit down with an attorney and go over everything. A personal injury attorney will be able to advise you on the best plan of action and when to settle with an insurance company or the person liable. Their goal is to get the biggest settlement possible for your injuries.
Following the tips outlined above will help you make sure that you don't overlook one small detail that could cost you a settlement. Consulting with a personal injury attorney is key, as they are trained to fight to protect the rights of injured people in a court of law.
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