No one likes to think about being involved in an accident, or what they’d do if they were unfortunately involved in one. However, how many of us would know what to do if we were involved in one, or even witnessed one happening? It’s because of this, that it’s a good idea to know what to do. Calling the emergency services is obviously one that comes to the forefront of everyone’s mind, but what about legal assistance? This could prove to make a big difference in the aftermath, so this article advises you on the legal steps you should take if you were recently injured.
Contact a Legal Representative
As soon as you’re able to, this should be your first step in respect of any legal action being taken on your behalf, and the second step, after seeking medical attention, in the overall situation. Even if it looks like you’re fine, with no visible signs of injury, you have no idea of what’s happening underneath. More importantly, there are some jurisdictions that specifically require anyone involved in an accident to seek medical assistance within a certain amount of time, otherwise, you may not be able to bring a claim against the other party involved.
The minute you contact your legal representative, you can be safe in the knowledge that they will have your best interests at heart. This will become immediately evident because they will be working on your case from the moment you initiate contact with them. As the legal team from The Terry Law Firm explains, experienced lawyers will be working on your case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. So whilst you’re recovering, they’ll be contacting witnesses and other parties that could assist them to build your case. They’ll also take the stress out of dealing with insurers, and know-how to even up the playing field when it comes to negotiating the level of compensation you should receive.
Participate in the Investigation
This doesn’t mean investigating or questioning witnesses, but doing what you can to help your legal representative do their best for you. So if you’re required to undergo medical examinations or physio, make sure you attend. If you’re unable to do this, ensure appointments are rescheduled to a time of convenience.
Make sure you answer all communications from your legal representatives in a timely manner. It’s also OK to ask them questions if you’re unsure of anything. It’s their job to not only defend you but to make sure you’re making informed decisions based on the information they’re supplying you. Any legal representative will understand you’re not at your best and will do their best to support you through this, but they can only do this if you’re honest with them, so if you are unsure of anything, ask them.
Discuss Compensation
Your legal representative will discuss this with you, however, you need to be aware that compensation will vary from case to case. The type of personal injury involved, and the medical attention you need to recover, will impact the award, as well as how this has impacted your ability to work.
Some things you could claim compensation for may include doctor visits, surgery, medication, any at-home care, lost wages, pain, and suffering, as well as for any punitive damages. The list goes on, which is why seeking medical attention as soon as possible after the accident is imperative, as is keeping to any medical appointments thereafter.
Remember, if another person has caused the accident that has resulted in your injury, it’s your right to be properly compensated so that your health can get back to as close to what your life was beforehand. If this person is legally responsible for the damages they’ve caused, then it’s only right that you’re compensated.
Read Also: 6 Steps to Take If You Were Injured in a Car Accident
This isn’t a lottery win, far from it, so never allow the other party’s representatives or insurers to pull on your heartstrings and make you feel bad, and accept the first offer they give you, as it’s more than likely lower than what you need. Don’t forget that without this just compensation, you could be financially worse off, because you’ll have to find money to help with your medical bills, as well as your daily living expenses. How is this reasonable or fair?
Knowing what legal steps to take following a recent injury will make all the difference to your ability to recover. This becomes even more important if your injury has impacted your ability to work, and you’re reliant on compensation to pay for any future medical treatment. It makes sense to store a number of reputable lawyers on your phone, so you just have to call them if you’re ever unfortunately injured. This simple task will ensure you have a lawyer of your choosing and will take the stress out of an already stressful situation.