Dos & Don'ts After an Injury
Traffic crashes are among the major causes of injuries and hospitalization in Kentucky and across the United States. Thankfully, Kentucky personal injury laws allow individuals who are injured in any kind of accident to pursue fair financial compensation regardless of the at-fault party.
Due to the shock or emotional trauma following the incident, many injured victims are unsure about how to proceed with their injury claims. A compassionate Kentucky personal injury attorney can educate you about the dos and don'ts after an accident when seeking damages for your injuries.
Mr. Slechter and Mrs. Slechter are committed to offering experienced legal guidance, support, and vigorous representation to clients in their injury claims. As your legal counsel, we can guide you through every legal step involved, advocate for your best interests, and improve your chances of a successful claim. Slechter Law Firm, PLLC is proud to serve clients in Louisville, Kentucky, and throughout the state, including Lexington.
Dos and Don'ts When You File a Personal Injury Claim
The moments following an accident or injury can be overwhelming and unsettling. However, what you do – or fail to do – can affect the outcome of your claims. Therefore, when you enter into a personal injury claim, here are some of the dos and don'ts:
Dont’s
DON'T leave the scene of an accident until you've exchanged information.
Before you leave the accident scene, it is crucial that you exchange relevant details with the other drivers involved. Collect the driver's name, address, phone number, vehicle registration number, license number, and insurance information.
DON'T talk about the case, not even to your friends.
Also, after filing your claims, do not discuss the case details with anyone – not even your friends. You should keep all vital information, strategies, and case details between you and your lawyer.
DON'T talk to the insurance adjuster first.
In addition, do not speak with the claims adjuster first. The claims specialist may interpret your statement contrarily, take your words out of context, or use your statement against you in court or during negotiations. Therefore, always consult with your attorney first.
DON'T neglect your injuries, even if you're uninsured or underinsured.
After an accident, you should make your health, well-being, and safety a priority. This involves getting immediate medical treatment, notwithstanding the magnitude of your injuries. The doctor can identify any hidden injuries and symptoms, recommend suitable treatment, or refer you to a specialist.
Also, you need to seek medical assistance for proper documentation of your injuries and treatment received, to comply with insurance requirements, and to avoid possible issues with the insurance provider when filing your injury claims.
DON'T accept the insurer's first deal.
Lastly, do not accept the first deal you're offered by the insurance provider. It might not account for all your future treatment costs, such as unforeseen medical expenses and missed time at work. Hence, only accept the insurer's settlement offer upon reaching the maximum medical improvement.
Dos
DO contact a personal injury attorney.
Contact a reliable attorney to represent you and assist in filing your injury claims. Your lawyer can assess and investigate every aspect of your case and determine the best way to pursue damages.
DO keep records of everything.
Proper documentation is necessary to seek compensation. Hence, keep accurate and detailed records of every document and evidence related to the accident or injury. These include relevant information about the other driver, witness testimonies and statements, police reports, and accident scene photos.
DO document your personal account of the incident.
In addition, write down every detail you can remember leading up to the accident, from the accident, and following the accident. Do this as soon as possible while the details are still fresh in your memory.
DO keep every medical record.
Also, document all of your medical bills, therapy sessions, doctor's appointments, and other medical records. This will help determine the extent of your injuries and other losses and estimate the monetary value of your case.
DO record the impact of the accident on your life.
Record how the accident or injury is affecting your day-to-day life and ability to work.
An experienced personal injury attorney can walk you through the claims process and improve your chances of achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Trusted Guidance Every Step of the Way
When filing a personal injury claim in Kentucky, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial for detailed guidance and to avoid hurting your case unintentionally. The skilled lawyers at Slechter Law Firm, PLLC have the diligence, skills, and resources to support, guide, and represent clients in their accident cases.
As your legal counsel, they can review and investigate all of the surrounding facts of your unique situation, explore your available options to pursue damages, and enlighten you about the right steps to take after the accident. Mr. Slechter and Mrs. Slechter will fight compassionately to protect your legal rights and help you pursue the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact Slechter Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule a simple case evaluation with reliable car accident lawyers. Mr. Slechter and Mrs. Slechter can offer you the personalized legal counsel and compassionate representation you need in your personal injury claims. The firm is proud to serve clients in Louisville, Lexington, and surrounding areas throughout the state of Kentucky.