Accidents are sometimes unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean you need to suffer substantial losses or financial debts because of them. Personal injury claims are specifically made for people who become injured because of another’s negligent accidents. The most common form of this comes from car accidents where another person was driving recklessly, intoxicated or made an error, and now you have an injury and medical bills because of it. To get back on your feet, a personal injury claim may be your only option. Here’s what you need to know about them.
The Accident Scene Contains Key Proof
You might be discombobulated after an accident, but once nerves have settled, you need to collect some evidence that could benefit your claim. At this point, you might not even know you’ll be filing a personal injury claim, so it’s important to get the details no matter if you think you’re injured. Before leaving the accident scene:
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Take pictures of the accident and any damage
- Get witness statements if possible
- Seek medical attention immediately afterward
Though these aspects may seem futile at the time, they could become important in proving that the other driver was negligent and that your injury was caused by the accident.
Time Is Limited
You don’t have forever to file your personal injury claim once you’ve determined you need it. Every state has what’s called a statute of limitations, which is a deadline they require all claims to be made by. If you try to file your claim after that deadline, it will likely be rejected. The most common deadline is two years immediately after the accident, but some states have longer and shorter timelines. Check your state laws to be extra sure you don’t miss it.
A Lawyer Is Sometimes Necessary, and Sometimes Not
Personal injury cases can range from incredibly simple to very elaborate and convoluted. If your case seems straightforward enough at the beginning, you are free to take it through yourself; a lawyer is never required. However, for cases that involve a lot of money or where it isn’t entirely clear who is at fault, hiring a lawyer may give you greater chances of success. There’s never a guarantee of a win, but a lawyer with plenty of experience and a working knowledge of your state’s laws can help immensely in getting you compensated. You can hire a personal injury lawyer in Canoga Park, CA, such as from Unidos Legales, at any time during the claims process.