Steps To Take Immediately After a Personal Injury

Personal injuries can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving you overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately after an injury is critical to protect your health and safety, as well as any future legal claims. Whether your injury occurs in a car accident, a slip-and-fall, or another type of accident, taking prompt action can help protect your well-being and your rights.

Prioritize Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health should be your first priority. If the injury is severe, call 911 or ask someone to do it for you.

First responders can assess your condition and provide the necessary medical care. Even if you believe your injury is minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is because some injuries, like concussions or internal organ damage, may not show symptoms right away but can get worse without treatment.

Keep a detailed record of your medical visits, diagnoses, and treatments. These records will be crucial evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim.

Document the Scene

If it’s safe, gather as much information about the incident as possible. Take photographs or videos of the scene, including hazards, damage, or any factors that contributed to your injuries.

Also, contact information should be collected from any eyewitnesses who saw what happened. Their statements could support your version of what happened if there’s a dispute.

Notify the Appropriate Parties

Depending on the type of incident, it’s essential to inform the relevant parties.

If you were injured in a car accident, contact the police and file a report. If your injuries were due to a workplace accident, report it to your employer or supervisor immediately. In cases of slip-and-falls on commercial properties, alert the property owner or manager.

Filing an official accident report gives you a documented record of your accident, which can be vital evidence for your claim.

Avoid Making Any Statements About Fault

Be mindful of what you say at the scene of the incident and afterward. Avoid admitting fault or making speculative comments about what caused the injury. Even casual remarks, such as saying, “I wasn’t paying attention,” could be misconstrued and used against you in a claim.

Stick to factual accounts and let investigators or attorneys determine the liability based on evidence.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible can make a huge difference in how your case unfolds.

An attorney who’s experienced in personal injury law can evaluate your case, advise you on your rights, and handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies.

They can guide you on whether you have a viable claim and the next steps to take, as well.

Keep Detailed Records

Keeping and organizing all of your related documentation is critical for a successful personal injury claim.

Hang on to medical bills, receipts for expenses related to the injury, and any correspondence (letters, emails, etc.) you’ve had with insurance companies. It’s also a good idea to start a journal to track your recovery, including pain levels, any emotional distress you experience, and how your injury impacts your daily activities.

These records can provide invaluable insight into the extent of your injuries and damages, both economic and non-economic, supporting your claim for fair compensation.

Follow Through With Medical Treatment

Adhering to your prescribed treatment plan is important not only for your recovery but also for your legal case. Failing to follow medical advice can give insurance providers an excuse to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you’ve claimed. Attend all appointments, follow rehabilitation plans, and take prescribed medications as directed.

Be Cautious When Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. Be cautious about what you say during conversations with them. Avoid providing recorded statements or signing documents without consulting an attorney first.

If the insurance provider offers you a settlement, carefully review it with your attorney before responding or agreeing to anything. An initial offer will often be quite a bit lower than what you’re actually entitled to, and negotiating for maximum compensation is a common step in personal injury cases.

Taking swift and thought-out action after a personal injury can help protect your health and strengthen your legal position, setting the stage for a smoother recovery and a fair resolution.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this process alone— our legal professional at the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp can make all the difference.