Accidents take place every day, leading to severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you sustained a serious injury as a result of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for such losses like lost wages and medical expenses. You can secure this compensation through an insurance claim or lawsuit. Whatever option you choose, a Lance D. Youd Personal Injury Law attorney can guide you each step of the way. Here’s what you can expect when you pursue compensation for accident-related injuries:
Seeking Medical Treatment
Following an accident, you must submit yourself to a medical evaluation as soon as possible even if you do not feel any pain or other symptoms. This is essential for your safety and your future injury claim. Failing to seek treatment after an accident will give the insurance company a reason to question the existence and extent of your injury. A doctor’s visit will allow your doctor to document your injury including your diagnosis, treatment plan, recovery, and prognosis.
Contacting a Lawyer
After you get treatment, call a lawyer to discuss your case. After listening to your story, the lawyer will explain your options and investigate your case if they think you have a valid reason to file a personal injury lawsuit. Also, your lawyer will review your medical records, accident report, and photos to build your claim. They may also speak with those who witnessed the accident and try to get their statements as well as consult with industry experts to prove your damages.
Making a Demand and Negotiating
Your lawyer will wait until you have fully recovered from your injury as approved by your doctor before they write a demand letter that details your injury and intent to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. The recipient can respond to the letter with a settlement offer. At this stage, your attorney can negotiate for a more reasonable offer. If the insurance company or the defendant is not willing to pay the amount you demand, your attorney can take your case to trial.
Filing a Lawsuit
After a lawsuit is filed, the discovery phase starts. This is where all parties involved will investigate the legal claims and defenses of the other. The discovery phase also lets you raise questions or request documents from the other party, depose witnesses, and prepare for trial. Pre-trial negotiations are still possible at this stage.
Going to Trial
During the trial, a judge will review all pieces of evidence presented by both parties and hear their arguments. The judge will then determine if you deserve compensation and how much.
