No one goes into a personal injury claim knowing exactly what to expect. It is a time of uncertainty for anyone who has had the misfortune of being injured through another party’s fault. Filing a personal injury claim involves navigating unfamiliar waters, and the end result determines whether or not you’ll receive the compensation you deserve. Handling the legal aspects of your injury, whether it is due to an automobile accident, medical errors, or slip and falls, can be confusing if you’re unprepared. With that in mind, here are some important pieces of advice to know going into your personal injury claim.
Seek Medical Help Right Away
This is the single most important thing you can do for your case. Medical records will make or break a personal injury claim, so make sure you keep all correspondence with your doctor and have certified records of all medical treatments you receive for your injuries. Failing to get medical attention immediately will weaken your claim and reduce the amount of money you receive from the insurance company.
Be Careful When Dealing With Insurance Companies
Your goal is getting the maximum settlement amount possible, and the insurance company’s goal is to pay out as little as they can. This means you have to look out for your interests at all times and be cautious about accepting initial settlement offers in the negotiation process. Often you can receive a larger settlement than the initial offer, especially if you have hired an injury attorney to negotiate on your behalf. Settling on your own can be stressful and complicated, especially if the other party has hired an attorney. This is why it is often beneficial to seek legal advice for your personal injury claim.
Know the Deadlines
Filing deadlines for personal injury claims, also known as the statute of limitations, vary according to what state you are filing the claim in. In New York, you have three years to file a claim. This is especially important to keep in mind if you think you might need to file a lawsuit in the future if the negotiation process does not go in your favor. The earlier you file the claim, the more likely it is that you will receive maximum compensation for your injuries.
Do Your Research
Learning a bit about the claims process and the difference between a personal injury claim and a lawsuit will help you to navigate your case. It’s also vital to research New York personal injury attorneys before you hire a lawyer to ensure that the person you choose is right for you. Go online to research your accident attorney and make sure they specialize in the type of injury you sustained, and check for references from past clients and a record of success. Knowing about personal injury claims and hiring an experienced lawyer will make a big difference when you file your claim.
Having an experienced lawyer in your corner can make the difference between a subpar settlement and a successful claim outcome. If you’re looking for a proven New York accident attorney, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein today for a free consultation at (212) 221-5999.