Taking the Necessary Precautions Following an Injury

Personal Injury - July 21, 2015 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

A Brief Insight into Handling Personal Injury Claims

If you have been injured due to the negligent or ‘careless’ behavior of another person, then you may be able to recover compensation in a civil lawsuit. The at-fault party may be liable for lost wages, medical expenses and/or pain and suffering.

Many factors influence the final compensation in personal injury cases, regardless of whether your injuries were the result of a car accident, hazardous product, or a slip and fall. This is why it is important to find a personal injury lawyer who has a proven record of success and can fight to protect both your rights and livelihood.
To be successful in proving a negligent action occurred, the plaintiff lawyer must show that the Defendant owed the injured plaintiff a duty, was careless and that the carelessness ultimately caused the injury.
After an accident has occurred, insurance companies will send their investigators to the site of the accident, and more likely than not begin to build a case against the injured party to destroy their chance of recovering compensation.

Taking the Necessary Precautions

Get the Police Report

If the police report does not implicate you as the person responsible, then it is a crucial piece of evidence that will give your claim additional support.

Seek Medical Attention

If you do not seek medical help quickly, then the other party may argue that your injuries were not the result of the accident – or that they worsened due to your refusal to seek medical attention.

Be Careful of What You Say

Emotions are usually rife after an accident, and people frequently implicate themselves unintentionally. Be mindful of your words, and do not apologize. Do not make any statements that others can interpret as guilt. Do not admit fault.

Gather Witness Testimonies

Accidents usually have several witnesses, and they can all tell their version of what happened. Witness testimonies can be strong evidence if they support your claim.

Collect Evidence

If possible, you should gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. Torn clothes, photographs or rocks in the road could all be critical pieces of evidence – take pictures! If this is not possible due to an injury, then you should return to the scene to look for evidence after seeking medical attention.

Keep All Documents

Documents are important for calculating damages. Keep records of all invoices paid, days taken off work, any lost income and every consequence of the accident. Make copies, and keep them safe.
Receiving fair and just compensation in personal injury cases is notoriously difficult – even if the negligence or fault seems obvious. At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we have the resources and experience in fighting for the injured. We can help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your claim, represent your interests during the settlement negotiations, and litigate your case if it proceeds to trial. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney from our firm, call (800) 985-1819.