Injured in a car accident

1. Hire a trusted lawyer immediately

Depending on your situation, you may not have insurance or other means to see a physician. Many times, an attorney can counsel you on other means to see physicians or where to go to ensure you receive the proper medical treatment. Most importantly, the attorney can guide you through the claim process in a manner that most protects your interest.

2. Obtain the best medical care possible immediately

This means go to a Hospital and document all areas of the body you feel pain immediately. If you wake up the next morning with pain in a different area of the body, go to the Hospital or doctor immediately and document it.

3. Never speak to the insurance company, no matter if they offer money

Many times the insurance company will make an initial offer in attempts to resolve the entire claim. The problem is, if you accept at the beginning of your medical treatment, you waive your rights to any more money if your condition becomes worse. As attorneys, we always wait to settle a case until the client has completed their medical treatment so that we know the full severity of the injury has run it's course.

4. Take photographs

This may seem obvious, but most people do not do it. Take photos of the damages to the cars, your injuries and even the intersection or areas where the accident happens. Photos are invaluable later during settlement negotiations or at trial.

5. Document your wage losses

If your off work, you must have a doctors note recommending you stay off in order for an insurance company to pay it. So, be sure to ask your doctor whether he/she feels you should work, and if they advise to take off, get a note and keep it for your file.

These 5 tips can help keep your injury claim on the right track!