After an accident that was the fault of someone else, you should always contact a lawyer and then follow certain steps to build a strong case.
Whether you have been injured in a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. As you pursue your claim, you take certain steps that you should take to maximize the compensation you receive. A critical part of the recovery process is making sure you have the appropriate amount of compensation to pay for your medical bills and more. If you have been hurt, below are some tips to help you build your case with your lawyer.
Preserve Evidence
Evidence is crucial to any personal injury claim, and it will help you prove your case so you must preserve it as much as possible. Pictures and video footage are always recommended, so take photos at the scene of what caused your accident, your injuries, and anything else that is relevant. For example, if you were injured in a crash and there are skid marks on the road, take a picture of those, as well.
Seek Medical Treatment
You must see a doctor after any accident, even if you do not think you were injured. Your health and well-being are the top priorities after an accident. A doctor will perform a full examination, treat immediate injuries, and know what injuries to look for that do not always present symptoms right away, such as a concussion. Seeing a doctor immediately after an accident will also make it harder for the insurance company to argue that you were not injured. This is a tactic they use when accident victims do not see a doctor so they do not have to pay full damages.
Know the Full Value of Your Claim
You can include not only current losses in your claim, but future losses, as well. Many people do not know how to accurately value their claim, and this is just one way a lawyer is extremely helpful after an accident. A lawyer will know how to calculate non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, and will make sure to include all of your losses, including those you will incur in the future.
Time it Right
To fully understand the future losses you will face, you must reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before you file. If you rush filing, you may not know the future losses you will incur and lose out on that compensation. On the other hand, if you wait too long, the statute of limitations may expire and you will forfeit your right to claim any damages.
Call Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Edinburg Today
If you have been hurt in an accident, do not file your claim on your own. At the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo, PLLC, our Edinburg personal injury lawyer has the necessary experience to negotiate with the insurance company and help you claim the full settlement you deserve. Call us today at 956-318-3200 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our seasoned attorney.