Personal injury cases arise when one person suffers harm from an accident or injury due to someone else’s wrongful conduct.
If liability and damages are proven, the responsible person’s insurance company will pay money to the injured person for pain and suffering, medical bills, and other ongoing medical expenses. Types of personal injury cases include medical malpractice, car accidents, construction accidents as well as many others caused by negligence or an intentional act.
When you’ve been injured or suffered damages of any kind, you’ll want to be sure you are seeking the maximum amount for appropriate compensation. This article will give you tips for maximizing your personal injury compensation.
1. Keep Detailed Records.
The more detail, the better, because as the Plaintiff in the case, the burden of proof is on you. If it was an automobile accident, get the names of everyone involved and potential witnesses. Take photographs. File a report with the police department and with your insurance company, and obtain copies of everything as soon as you can. The same goes with a medical injury case. Take photos, keep records.
2. Get medical treatment.
Getting medical treatment should go without saying, but it’s too important not to say. After an accident, you may not see or feel any immediate effects, so you may be tempted to ignore this step. Don’t. Also, keep a record of how you feel as time goes on. Many times a condition or an injury in the future can be traced back to the accident. If you feel traumatized, get the appropriate mental health care and keep all receipts and records.
3. Hire a personal injury lawyer.
Hire a qualified, experienced personal injury lawyer with a proven track record representing clients in personal injury claims as soon as you can after the accident. They understand what will be needed to prove your case, and just as importantly, can advise you if you even have a case. Of course, you are always free to choose your own course of action, including if and when to settle, but getting expert legal advice can help you decide.
And, of course, being completely honest and upfront with your attorney will ensure you get the best possible outcome.
4. File on time.
You do need to file your claim within the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is complicated and it is very important you speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. It can take some time to investigate and get the relevant documents, witness statements, etc. It can be a lengthy process, but be aware that there is a time limit for filing.
5. Watch what you say.
As with any other legal matter, be aware that what you say could negatively impact your case. While it may be tempting to talk about it, especially on social media, use restraint! You don’t want to harm your chances of getting the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries.
6. Consider carefully.
You could miss some important aspects of the case in wanting to just get on with your life that could be important later. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney will ensure that you don’t miss anything now or in the future. Not only will your attorney guide you through the entire process, including what to expect, how much to ask for, and much more, they will also advocate for you every step of the way with the insurance company and the other side in your case.
When you hire the right personal injury lawyer, they can help you get the maximum compensation you deserve. They understand that injuries and damages can include more than a damaged vehicle or property, a broken arm, lost wages, and doctor bills. They can consist of emotional distress, future earnings, the loss of activities you were formerly able to enjoy, and so on.
Ted Babbitt is a top West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer with a proven track record, having served the entire state of Florida, and throughout the country, for over five decades. An award-winning attorney, you can be sure your case is in the best possible hands!
Call Ted today at (561) 375-2841 or fill out the online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and see how he can help you.