Many people do not file personal injury claims after being involved in accidents because they do not know what the process involves. It can be intimidating, especially if you have never filed a lawsuit before, but it need not be so. You should claim your rightful compensation if you have been injured in an accident and you believe it was someone else’s fault. With a good personal injury lawyer by your side, the process should be simple and straightforward and you might even be able to get the compensation you deserve without having to go to court. Below are the steps involved.
- Consult a personal injury attorney
Once you are well enough, you should consult a personal injury lawyer to discuss the circumstances under which the accident occurred. Talk to a few personal injury lawyers before you decide on one to handle your case. You are better off going for a firm that specializes in personal injury cases, such as Feather Law Group: Personal Injury Lawyers. Such a firm will be well equipped to handle your case well and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Your lawyer will help you determine whether you have a case to begin with and if you do, he/she will let you know what needs to be done. When you go for your consultation, carry any documentation that may be relevant to the case, such as medical records and any notes you may have taken pertaining to the case. Avoid lawyers that charge for consultation.
- Investigation
Your lawyer will investigate your case in order to assess the severity of your injuries, the damages caused, and all the costs involved. This will help him/her determine how much you are entitled to. Your lawyer will then contact the insurance company and negotiate for a good deal on your behalf. A good attorney will ensure you are always aware of what is going on with your case and any new developments. You do not need to be involved as you will still be recuperating and trying to get your life back together.
- Settling out of court
Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. This is usually the case when your lawyer is able to make a good deal with the insurance company and there are no disputes about who was at fault in the accident. In the end, it is up to you to decide whether the offer made by the insurance company is acceptable. Your attorney will only give you their opinion and guide you.
- Filing a lawsuit
If you are unable to come to an agreement with the insurance company, you will have to take the case to court. The court process can take several months or years to come to a close and it is best to avoid going to court unless it is absolutely necessary. Also, even after spending so much time going through the various phases of the process, you are not guaranteed you will get the compensation you deserve.
