Every year, there are 39.5 million personal injury cases requiring medical treatment in the US every year, which is roughly 126.3 cases per 1000. (On the Map: Personal Injury Statistics 2025)
Getting hurt because of someone else’s mistake can be extremely overwhelming, especially in case of serious injuries. Most people are not even aware of their rights and struggle with deciding what their next step should be.
In such cases, personal injury claims can be made. These are a form of compensation that helps the victim or their families navigate through these difficult times. However, the entire procedure for this can be quite complicated to follow through.
This step-by-step guide provides a complete breakdown of how you should approach such matters. So read on to learn everything you should know about personal injury claims.
What happens if you get hurt because of someone else’s mistake?
To answer this question, first, we need to understand what exactly are personal injury claims. These claims help people who got hurt due to someone else’s mistake get money for medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
These can be requested for a range of damages resulting from physical or psychological injuries, however, the process can feel confusing. There are steps to follow, deadlines to meet, and legal terms to understand.
Knowing what to expect can make things easier, and learning how personal injury claims work can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. So, here are the steps that should be followed:
Get Medical Help
Visit a doctor as soon as possible. It doesn’t matter if the injury seems small, there is a possibility of it getting worse. A doctor can check for hidden problems and start treatment before they get worse. Waiting too long could also hurt your claim. Insurance companies may argue that the injury is not serious.
Carefully, keep all medical records and bills. These serve as proof of the injury and treatment. Follow the doctor’s advice and go to all appointments. Stopping the treatment too soon may affect your case. A full recovery should always be the major focus.
DO YOU KNOW? According to the estimates of the Department of Justice, 52% of personal injuries are from motor vehicle accidents.
Gather Evidence
Evidence is important to prove what happened. Take clear photos of injuries, damage, and the accident scene. If there were any witnesses, ask for their names and contact details. Their statements can play an important part in your claim.
Keep all the medical records, receipts, and other documents to show the costs of treatment and lost wages. It is also advised to keep a journal of your pain and recovery. Written details can help later if you need to explain your experience. Remember that strong evidence makes a case stronger.
Report the Incident
Inform the authorities about the accident. If it happened in a car, call the police. If it was at a business, report it to the manager. Obtaining an official report can beneficially prove what happened.
Ask for a copy of any reports, as these documents can have important details and show who was at fault and how the accident happened. If possible, get the names of those involved. Reporting the incident quickly makes it much more difficult for the parties at fault to deny what happened.
Talk to a Lawyer
Personal injury cases can be difficult, and insurance companies may try to pay less. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and fight for fair compensation. They also handle legal paperwork and deadlines.
Dimopoulos Law Firm has experience with personal injury cases. They can review your case and provide the right guidance. Many lawyers offer free consultations, so do not hesitate to ask questions. A good lawyer can make the process easier and ensure you get what you deserve.
File a Claim
After collecting all the evidence, it is time to file. This means sending paperwork to the right place. If an insurance company is involved, follow its process. If the dispute is brought before the court, legal forms must be filed.
There are deadlines, and missing them could end your case, hence filing on time is important. A lawyer can help ensure everything is correct. Once filed, the insurance company or court will review the claim.
DID YOU KNOW? Unintentional injuries are the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Know Your Rights and Take Action
Getting hurt can be extremely stressful and have a severe impact on your life. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain can make life harder. But you don’t have to handle everything on your own. The right steps can help get the money and support needed.
Do not forget that acting quickly makes a difference. Waiting too long can have a negative impact on the case. Keeping records and getting support can make the process easier. You can protect your rights by being aware of what to do. Additionally, with the right help, you will be able to focus on healing and moving forward.
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