Personal Injury Claims for Beginners
Guide to Handling Personal Injury Claims
Filing a personal injury claim can seem daunting to many people due to the numerous steps involved and the complex process. However, with the right guidance and resources, it can be a manageable process. Here is an overview of the steps involved in handling personal injury claims to help beginners get started.
Determining the Validity of the Claim
The first step is to determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim. A valid claim must establish that your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional act, and the person who caused your injuries had a legal duty or obligation to protect you from harm. If you were injured due to your own negligence, you cannot file a valid personal injury claim.
Gathering Evidence
Once you have determined that you have a valid claim, it’s time to start gathering evidence. This includes collecting any medical records related to your injury, police reports, or eyewitness accounts that may help prove that the other party was responsible for your injury. It’s also essential to document any expenses related to your injury, such as lost wages or medical bills.
Contacting an Attorney
After gathering the necessary evidence, it’s time to contact an attorney. An experienced attorney can provide valuable insight into potential strategies for success and guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim. A good attorney should also be able to evaluate your case and provide an honest assessment of its potential merits.
Negotiating Settlements
Once you’ve chosen an attorney, it’s time to start negotiating with the other party or their insurance company to reach a settlement agreement. Both parties will exchange information and make offers until they reach an agreement they are both satisfied with. In some cases, settling out of court may be the best option. However, if negotiations fail to produce an acceptable agreement, the case may need to proceed to trial.
Distributing Settlement Money
After reaching a settlement or winning at trial, it’s important to understand how the money will be distributed and what taxes may apply. In most cases, the money is split between attorneys’ fees and compensatory damages (money paid for medical bills and lost wages). Depending on the nature of the case and where it is being tried, punitive damages may also be awarded (these are additional damages meant to punish wrongdoers). Taxes will also likely apply; however, these vary depending on state law and should be discussed with your attorney before accepting any settlement offer.
Conclusion
Filing a personal injury claim can be complicated and intimidating, but with the right guidance and resources, it doesn’t have to be so difficult. By understanding what constitutes a valid claim, gathering evidence beforehand, seeking counsel from an experienced attorney, and understanding how settlements are distributed once reached, anyone can successfully handle their own personal injury claim.