The First Steps in the Aftermath of a Personal Injury

There are several factors that may play a part in a personal injury claim. However, if not properly documented these factors can be overlooked and not included in the cause. It could cause the case to halt or be dismissed. For people who have sustained a personal injury, whether by the negligence of another person or an automobile accident, there is grounds to file a personal injury claim if all of the information obtained directs fault to another individual.

As with any court claims, there are several steps that you should take when  you or a loved one sustains a personal injury and is seeking to file a claim for damages or expenses due to that injury. These steps can be handled with or without a lawyer present, but will eventually need to be presented to a lawyer to help file and sort out the specifics of your claim.

• Take Plenty of Notes. When you’ve been in an automobile accident or have been injured due to another person’s negligence, you should always take notes on what happened. Starting from the point of meeting the person to the aftermath of what the injury took to recover. A personal diary can be used in the event that the dates match with the time of the accident and the information within is congruent with the accident and its aftermath.
• Acknowledge Witnesses. There are several people who may be around during the event of the injury. These people will be able to provide witness statements and help you to preserve the evidence of the injury.
• Obtain a copy of the police report, if possible. With some injuries, such as an automobile accident, the police will be called out to the scene to investigate. All of their findings will be detailed in a report that they must submit to their supervising officers. A copy of this report may be needed by your lawyer to process your claim. It can also benefit you when you are speaking to a judge or in open court regarding your personal injury.
• Obtain copies of any medical records pertaining to the incident. There are several medical bills that can arise out of a personal injury. Therapy or surgery may be needed to correct the injury. In this case, all of your medical expenses can be covered by the defendant if found responsible by the courts during the hearing of your claim.
• Notify any and all responsible parties. Although this may be the last thing on your mind after the pain and suffering from a personal injury, it is ideal to notify those who you are bringing a claim against.