Never to experience. Unfortunately, accidents are inevitable and do happen when we least expect them. If you have been in a road accident, it is essential to know your legal rights. Many people are not aware of what they should do after an accident, which can often lead to them being taken advantage of by the other party involved.
This article will discuss some helpful legal tips to help you after suffering a road accident. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after an accident is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. There are many injuries that may not present themselves immediately after an accident. However, by seeking medical attention, you will be able to get a thorough check-up and ensure that there are no underlying injuries.
Besides this, seeking medical attention will enable the doctor to document your injuries. This documentation will come in handy when you make an insurance claim or file a personal injury lawsuit. Ensure that you keep all the medical records and receipts as they will be required as evidence.
Hire A Reputable Attorney
Once you have sought medical attention and been cleared, the next step is to hire a reputable attorney. Many people choose to handle their personal injury claims. However, this is not advisable as the insurance companies will often take advantage of you if you are not represented by an attorney. For instance, you can always seek help on personal injury claims at The Horne Law Firm and work with experienced attorneys who will help you get the compensation you deserve. Ensure that you choose the right lawyer who is experienced in handling cases similar to yours.
When choosing an attorney, there are several things you should look out for. For instance, you should ensure that the attorney has a good track record and is well-respected in the legal community. In addition to this, you should also make sure that the attorney you choose is experienced in handling cases similar to yours.
Gather Enough Evidence
If you want to win your personal injury claim, you will need enough evidence to back up your case. Some of the things you will need to take into account include taking photos of the accident scene, getting the contact information of witnesses, and keeping a journal detailing your injuries and how they have affected your daily life.
You will use all this evidence to support your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. Ensure that you go through the evidence with your lawyer before filing your claim to ensure that you have everything you need. They will help you sift through the evidence and determine what is relevant to your case.
Get in Touch With Your Insurance Company
After an accident, you should also contact your insurance company to notify them of the incident. Do not give the other driver’s insurance company a recorded statement without consulting your attorney first. They can use anything you say against you to deny your claim.
Your insurance company will also be able to provide you with a copy of your policy to see what coverages you have. In most cases, your insurance company will also provide you with an accident lawyer. However, it is essential to note that the lawyer provided by your insurance company may not have your best interests at heart.
File Your Claim within the Statute of Limitations
It is important to note that there is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, within which you can file your personal injury claim. The statute of limitations varies from state to state. In some states, you have as little as one year to file your claim.
Therefore, you must consult with your attorney and find out how much time you have to file your claim. Once the statute of limitations expires, you will no longer be able to file a claim, regardless of how strong your case may be. This means that you need to be quick in taking legal action.
Avoid Settling Your Claim Too Quickly
Once you have filed your personal injury claim, the insurance company will likely try to settle the matter quickly and for a low amount. They may even offer you a lump sum settlement. However, you mustn’t accept any settlement until you have consulted with your attorney.
Your attorney will be able to advise you on whether the settlement offer is fair. They will also help you negotiate with the insurance company to get a higher settlement amount. Ensure that whatever is offered is enough to cover all your present and future damages.
Take these valuable tips into account, and you will be on your way to getting the compensation you deserve after suffering a road accident. Remember to seek medical attention, hire a reputable attorney, gather enough evidence, and file your claim within the statute of limitations. With these steps, you will be one step closer to getting the justice you deserve.
