People get injured every day. If you have been injured by someone else’s negligence, you have two main options for compensation: see if any insurance applies or file a lawsuit against the liable party.
But it’s not so easy to file a personal injury claim and you may be confused about the process. What happens now? How do you get started? Here are the steps you need to follow.
Seek Medical Treatment
Don’t delay medical treatment. Your health is your priority. Even if you feel fine, there are several reasons why going to the hospital right after an accident is necessary:
- You may have internal injuries or other hidden injuries.
- You establish documentation, which is crucial for your claim.
- The insurance company may deny your claim if you don’t seek timely medical treatment.
Contact a Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you understand your avenues for obtaining compensation. In car accident cases, for example, insurance may apply. Plus, a lawyer can help you understand how much your case is worth. This can be challenging in situations where you are seriously injured and require long-term or lifelong medical care.
File a Claim
If you plan to file a claim for compensation, make sure to let the other party know. Once they are aware of the claim, they may try to settle it quickly just to get it done and over with. In some cases, they may fight it and try to take you to court. Just make sure you file your claim in a timely manner, as you have just three years under Washington law.
Gather Evidence
Gather as much documentation as you can about your injuries and other damages. If you have medical bills from the accident, keep copies of them. Work with your doctor to get statements about the full extent of your injuries and the required treatment. If you were unable to work, have proof of income readily available. If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged, get estimates on repair or replacement. All of this can be used to prove your case and help you get you the most compensation possible.
Negotiate With the Other Party
It’s best to avoid litigation, so work with the other party to resolve the case. They will likely try to lowball you, so you and your lawyer may have to go back and forth several times to arrive at an amount that is agreeable to everyone involved. You’ll want to make sure the amount you receive covers all your damages. If you and the other party cannot come to an agreement, then you will have to take your case to court.
Contact Us Today
If a third party has injured you, you will likely suffer a lot of damages. Don’t lose out on compensation simply because you don’t know where to start. A personal injury lawyer from Alliance Law Group can guide you through the process. Our priority is to help you get the most compensation possible. To schedule a free consultation, call 253-300-2055 or fill out the online form.