20% of people who experience a traumatic event, such as a serious car accident, go on to develop PTSD. Suffering a personal injury like a TBI can be a physically, emotionally, and financially draining experience. Navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim to ensure you receive fair compensation can feel overwhelming. Matthew Mincone, an experienced personal injury attorney in Tampa, guides you on how to effectively pursue your claim and secure the compensation you deserve.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority after an accident. Always see a doctor right away. Around 289,000 concussions are caused by car accidents annually, as are 17% of all traumatic brain injuries.
Document Everything Meticulously
Thorough documentation is critical for building a strong personal injury case. If possible, take photographs or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
Make a note of expenses related to the accident. This includes medical bills, travel expenses for appointments, and any lost wages due to time off work. On average, a car accident victim loses 11 days of work and $1,590.
Understand the Full Value of Your Personal Injury Claim
It’s important to recognize that compensation isn’t limited to current medical bills. Your claim can and should include future medical costs, such as ongoing therapy or potential surgeries. Lost income, both current and future if your ability to work is impacted, should also be factored in. Don’t overlook non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you accurately assess the full value of your claim.
Be Cautious with Statements and Social Media
When discussing the accident, especially with insurance adjusters, be careful about what you say. Do not post about the accident, your injuries, or anything at all on social media platforms. Insurance companies often look closely at claimants’ social media activity and might use what you say on Facebook or Instagram as evidence that you’re not that badly injured or even bothered about the accident.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer as Soon as Possible
Hiring a personal injury lawyer early in the process can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. A lawyer can handle communications with insurance companies, gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.
Most personal injury claims are settled through negotiation rather than a court trial. The negotiation process often begins with your lawyer sending a demand letter to the at-fault party or their insurer, outlining the facts of the case, liability, and the damages sustained.
Don’t be discouraged if the initial settlement offer is low; this is a common tactic. Your lawyer will assess the offer and can submit a counteroffer, explaining why a higher amount is justified. Be patient during this process, as rushing to settle can result in accepting less than you deserve. Your attorney will advise you on whether to accept an offer or if pursuing legal action in court is necessary.
By taking these steps, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving the compensation you are entitled to after a personal injury. Remember, prioritizing your health, meticulously documenting everything, understanding your claim’s full worth, and seeking professional legal guidance is key to a successful outcome.
