When an accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating. Whether you have been injured because of a slip and fall, auto accident, product defect, or other incident caused by a negligent individual, you have a right to take legal action. If a person is injured in an accident that causes serious injury, they should be aware of what steps to take to protect their rights so that they can bring a claim against the liable party.
As a reliable car accident lawyer like one from The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can explain in detail, below are several steps you should take if you are ever seriously injured in an accident.
Report the Incident
The first thing you should do if you are injured in an accident is inform law enforcement, supervisor, or owner of the property. This step is important because it will be documented by the right authorities or management and it shows you made an effort to formally report the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Regardless of the extent or severity of your injury, you must seek medical attention after an accident. Not doing so can put your claim at risk, and it can be an incentive for insurance companies to claim that you were not really injured or argue that the incident did not occur. As one of the strongest pieces of evidence, a medical report is crucial in a personal injury case as it explains the nature of your injury in detail.
Gather Witness Statements
Were there any witnesses nearby at the time of the accident? If so, obtain their contact information and collect statements from each one. They may have seen details you may not have which can support your case.
Submit a Claim in Time
Be aware of the statute of limitations for your particular type of case. A statute of limitations can be viewed as a time limit to file a claim. They vary from state to state, so it’s important that you review them for your location. For example, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Washington, D.C. is within three years from the date your injury occurred.
To increase your chances of obtaining a higher and more reasonable amount of compensation, talk to a lawyer who can closely evaluate your case and suggest next steps. Contact a personal injury lawyer now to learn more about what your legal options are.