Personal Injury Claim

Over 31 million people are injured each year and require medical treatment. From car accident injuries, work-related injuries to medical malpractice, liability is often disputed in these cases. When this happens, a personal injury claim or other form of litigation is necessitated.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or actions, you’re entitled to some form of compensation. Most people don’t have any knowledge on how to handle personal injury cases. Here are few things you need to know when it comes to filing a personal injury claim.

Have I been Injured?

For a personal injury case to be valid, an Amarillo based law firm page shows that there must be a valid reason for a claim and negligence on the part of some other party. For instance, if you were in a car accident and didn’t sustain any injuries, you don’t have a personal injury claim.

Injuries in personal injury cases may include head injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures and others. Minor injuries like bruises may not warrant for a personal injury claim. Severe or fatal injuries are more likely to have you a better chance at filing a successful claim or lawsuit.

If There are Injuries, What Do I Do?

For severe injuries, you will need the help of an accredited personal injury lawyer. One of the biggest mistakes that injured victims make is thinking that insurance companies are on their side. Insurers want to make a profit, so they’ll pay out the lowest amount possible.

Because of this, they’ll take advantage of you if you don’t have a lawyer representing you. Don’t handle your injury case on your own or you could ruin your case. The first step is to always consult a lawyer before taking any further steps.

Never Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company

Talking to an insurance adjuster after an accident often leads to disastrous consequences. Insurance companies will be quick to ask you to provide a recorded statement so that you can make a mistake that adversely affects your case.

Personal injury lawyers advise that you should never give a recorded statement to an insurance company. Be careful with whoever you share information with. Whatever you say may be used against you. To get a fair settlement, seek the help of a lawyer first.

Find the Right Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal injury is a vast field of law with different areas of specialization. Cases may involve injuries sustained in auto accidents, medical malpractice cases, product liability and even work-related incidents. Choose the most qualified and trustworthy lawyer specializing in your type of injury.

While hiring a lawyer is often daunting for first-timers, it’s the best chance you have at getting the fair settlement or compensation in court. How do you find the right personal injury lawyer?

  • Talk to trusted people who can strongly recommend a lawyer they’ve worked with.
  • Use a personal injury lawyer referral service.
  • Research lawyers on the internet and read their online reviews and past case results.

Interview Potential Lawyers

It’s always best to interview more than one lawyer to get the best fit for your case. An online legal resource provides a list of some of the questions you should ask:

  • What’s your level of experience with my specific injury case?
  • How many years have you been practicing personal injury law?
  • Can I see a list of all your past settlements and verdicts?
  • How often do you take cases to trial and do you have trial experience?
  • Will you be handling my case?
  • How do you communicate with clients?
  • Do you work on a contingency fee basis?

Getting the right answers to these questions will help you make an informed choice.

The Bottom Line

Expect most personal injury attorneys not to charge you upfront. They only take a percentage of the compensation paid (usually 33%-40%) if they win your case. You must also file your claim before the statute of limitations in your state has expired.