If you or a loved one is injured by someone else’s neglect, consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. While many cases settle out of court, you must move quickly.
Making sure you take all necessary measures to protect your case is the first step. Here are some things to remember when you file a personal injury lawsuit.
Understand Types of Injuries
Personal injury cases are not limited to motor vehicle accidents. While personal injury attorneys can handle most cases, many have specialties.
For example, a motorcycle injury attorney will work with people affected by motor vehicle accidents. Some other types of injuries that may require a personal injury lawyer are:
- Boating accident
- Animal attack
- Medical malpractice
- Assault
- Dangerous foods
Select an Attorney
An attorney helps you protect yourself and ensures you get all rewards that you are entitled to.
Look for a personal injury attorney with positive reviews; referrals from friends are helpful. Other attorneys may provide a professional recommendation.
Your comfort level with the attorney and their staff helps them collect information. You will share personal, financial, and medical information with this team.
A professional attorney will put you at ease and discuss confidentiality expectations.
Know Compensation Options
You receive reimbursement for more than just medical expenses or vehicle damage. Your attorney helps you recover lost wages.
If permanent injuries require modifications to your home or vehicle to meet your needs, include those costs in your settlement.
Pain and suffering is an umbrella term for trauma-related anxiety treatment expenses.
With some injuries, medical treatments may cause discomfort during the healing process. An attorney will help you receive compensation for this pain.
Keep Records
Get copies of all medical and police records related to the accident. Don’t forget prescription medication, chiropractor, or therapist bills.
If you can get photos of the scene and any damage to the vehicles or surrounding area, do so.
Document all phone calls, texts, or emails. Neighbors or witnesses may have video evidence of the accident or its aftermath.
A motorcycle injury attorney will affirm that the more information you have, the better they can establish the case.
Be Patient
Deciding to pursue a claim is a difficult decision. Be sure to file early to remain within the statute of limitations.
Once your attorney assembles the necessary information, submitting the initial claim takes a minimum of 30 days, usually closer to 90 days.
From there, most cases are completed in about a year. If you have more extensive injuries, multiple claimants, or several defendants, the process usually takes longer.
Many personal injury claims may settle out of court through arbitration or mediation.
Complete Your Treatment
While your attorney updates you on the status of the claim, you must continue with your physical and mental recovery.
Your attorney is working hard for you. You help them provide a strong case by working on your healing.
Working with an attorney can help you stay focused on your treatment. They can make sure you receive all benefits available to you.