Accidents occur in the workplace, on the road, in the home, and in public places.
Unfortunately, often times, these preventable accidents lead to a serious
injury. Attorneys can help ease the burden by handling the nuances of your
case, allowing you to focus on getting better and recovering after your injury.
In the case where there has been a breach in the duty of care, the victim may
be eligible to receive compensation for the damages, medical care, pain and
suffering, and loss income as a result of their injury. If you suspect that
negligence has resulted in you or your loved one being injured, there are a few
important steps to take in order to preserve the validity of your claim.
In the case of a motor vehicle accident, make sure you take
the following steps in a timely manner:
- Report your accident to the local police. If
police action is not necessary, report your incident to your local collision
reporting centre.
- Record the names and addresses of all witnesses
near the scene of the accident.
- Record the name of the other driver(s), the
license plate of the vehicle in question, and the corresponding insurance
information.
- Seek medical attention immediately – this will
provide tangible documentation of the nature and extent of your injury.
- If possible, take pictures of your injury at the
time of the accident.
- Notify your insurance company as soon as
practicably possible.
- Notify your employer, school, or any other
institutions that you may be affiliated to.
- Record the names and contact information of the
health care professionals that cared for you at the hospital or in the
ambulance.
- Keep the receipts for all expenses related to
accident.
- Contact your insurance provider to understand
the benefits that you may be eligible to.
- Contact an attorney that understands your rights
and can act in your best interest.
Of course, like any situation, there are dos and don’ts.
Sometimes, taking action or failing to take action can actually hurt your
claim. One of the most common mistakes that plaintiffs make is that they prematurely
make statements to their insurance company or adjuster without first seeking
legal advice. Any information you provide to your insurance company with will
be documented and used to build the validity of your case. Contact a legal
professional before making any statements to the insurance company. Another
common mistake that can hurt the validity of any claim is waiting to receive or
avoiding medical help entirely. This can be used against you as evidence that
your injury was not initially deemed to be serious.
If you have suffered a serious injury, hiring attorneys can
be the difference in building a case that is valid with evidence that will hold
up in the court of law. Once injured, report your accident to the local
authorities and seek medical help immediately. Taking the appropriate steps and
having tangible documentation is important when developing a case for damage
awards and compensation.