The first step to determining whether you have a personal injury case is to speak to an accident lawyer. Your injury and losses may be worth compensation, and you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The first step in making a personal injury claim is to get legal advice and documentation of your injuries. Next, get a second opinion. Finally, calculate the value of your claim.
Getting legal advice for a personal injury claim
Getting legal advice for a personal injury claim is crucial as these cases can take a long time to resolve. Therefore, your chosen attorney is important in ensuring your case is successful. A good personal injury law firm will have a team of intake representatives who will listen to your story and ask follow-up questions to find out more details. Most top injury law firms will evaluate your case within 24 hours. Then, you will have the opportunity to meet your attorney in person or through a document signing program.
While the initial consultation with your lawyer may seem straightforward, hiring a lawyer with relevant experience in your field is a good idea. Many personal injury attorneys specialize in a specific area of the law. Ask them about their experience and expertise, and ensure they attend to all client calls and emails. In addition, get a list of references for each attorney you interview.
Documenting your injuries
A good case file is an essential part of your injury claim. It must include all relevant documents, including medical bills, imaging studies, physician interpretation, and any replacement services you may have required during the claim. Medical records are important evidence because they detail your injuries and show a connection to the party at fault. They will also provide proof of your injuries’ severity and how they impacted your daily life.
In addition to medical records, and an injury journal is an important tool for filing a personal injury claim. Your diary should include dates of doctor appointments, pain levels, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms, along with the cost of any special equipment needed for your recovery. Keeping track of your injury expenses, such as prescriptions, physical therapy, and other costs, will help you get the compensation you deserve. You can even document your lost income.
Getting a second opinion
Although it may seem counterintuitive, getting a second opinion can help you to strengthen your injury claim. Many insurance companies will ask you to undergo an independent medical examination, or IME, to verify the extent of your injuries. While these exams offer an unbiased assessment, the insurance company may be reluctant to pay for them. In these cases, your attorney must prepare you for the IME, as the doctor assessing your injuries may be a claims adjuster.
Sometimes, your insurance company will require you to see a doctor within their network. However, if you have a choice of doctors, you can decide after 30 days. You also have the right to change your doctor as often as you like. If your doctor insists on changing your diagnosis, it is best to find another physician. It will help you get the best medical care possible and ensure you return to work in good health.
Calculating the value of your claim
In calculating the value of your injury claim, you should consider your medical expenses, economic losses, and pain and suffering. A jury verdict is a good way to estimate the pain and suffering you have endured. Punitive damages can also be a part of the claim, though they should only be awarded in cases of willful injury. For more information, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.
Medical bills are an essential part of your claim. You must include all bills incurred if you were injured. Some services may result in several bills, including imaging test bills and separate ones for the use of the imaging equipment and interpretation of the results. You may also receive separate bills from a hospital emergency room. You will need to keep all receipts, including receipts, to prove your claim. However, if you can show that you have had a significant medical cost, you should file a claim.
