Someone hurt you. They caused a car crash, didn’t maintain their property or otherwise directly contributed to a situation that left you hurt. Now, you have medical bills, weeks of unearned wages and even property damage expenses destroying your finances.
Whether the party responsible for your injuries is another person or a corporation, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. If you understand the basic process of pursuing a personal injury claim, it can be much easier to take those first steps.
Document everything, and review your records
From the moment that a product fails and causes a house fire or you step out of your vehicle after a car crash, you need to think about preserving evidence. Photographs and videos captured by your phone can help prove the situation that led to your injury. Traffic cameras, security cameras and even witness statements can corroborate your claims.
Financial records, including hospital bills and pay stubs that show how much you usually make, can all help establish the impact of this incident on your life. A review of the police report or any other records can help you verify that you are in a position to take legal action.
File papers with the court, but prepare for negotiations
Once you know that your circumstances are actionable, the next step is to file a claim with the civil courts. You can plan for court while still staying open to settling your case.
Many businesses, individuals and insurance companies are eager to settle major claims outside of court. You need to be ready to negotiate with the other party or their attorney for the compensation you deserve. An out-of-court settlement can be faster and more cost-effective for everyone involved, but they don’t always happen. You shouldn’t accept a low offer just to avoid court.
Understand that court proceedings may be necessary
If you can’t find a reasonable compromise with the other party or if they simply want to shrug off all of their responsibilities, then litigation will be necessary.
Provided that the courts agree with your version of events, they may issue a judgment that instructs the other party to compensate you for your losses. Handling all of these steps on your own can be difficult. Especially when it comes to negotiating and litigating, many people benefit from having professional support. Understanding the basics of your case and the steps you need to take can help you get the compensation you deserve after a serious injury.