Are you still overwhelmed after a recent accident? It’s normal to feel confused at this very moment, especially if your personal injury will result in loss of income. What to do or where to turn for help could be among your greatest concerns. Here are the 4 crucial steps needed after encountering a personal injury due to someone’s fault or negligence.
Step #1 – Get immediate medical attention
If you suffered a serious injury after an accident, the first thing you should do is get immediate medical attention. It’s vital that a medical professional assesses the extent of harm or physical injury inflicted on you because there are some symptoms that won’t easily manifest right after the accident. For example, if you just had a minor collision while driving due to the other driver’s wrongdoing the bruising will only appear after a few days.
Step #2 – Consult a personal injury lawyer
Once you have received the appropriate medical treatment and discharged, the next step you need to do is consult an experienced personal injury lawyer. Narrate everything that happened including the full details of your injury. If your accident occurred in Philadelphia, it would best to contact a local legal representative because this expert is knowledgeable about the existing state law that could affect your injury claim. Besides, the attorney can give you solid advice on whether you have a valid personal injury claim or none.
Step #3 – Take part of the investigation
After your private meeting with a lawyer, the investigation will take place. Your cooperation is highly needed to fast track this process. In most cases, the assigned attorney handling your case will have a team that will evaluate the incident including your injuries to verify who is really at fault and how serious is your personal injury. The team that will investigate may compose reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and other experts with a background in injury claims. At this phase, you need to work closely with your Philadelphia personal injury lawyer, comply with his or her instructions, and take part in the investigation as the need arises.
Step #4 – Know what kind of compensation you are entitled
Knowing what kind of compensation you are entitled will vary and be mostly dependent on the extent of your injuries. Your hired attorney will be able to give you an estimated amount of money you will receive based on the following:
- Number of doctor visits you are required to achieve a full recovery
- Prescriptions including therapies
- Medical lab tests performed
- Aftercare treatment
- Loss of earnings
- Other damages (extent of pain or discomfort, Punitive damages)
I do hope this topic will provide enough information and help you find a credible personal injury lawyer in your local jurisdiction. If you are having apprehensions about your recent accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer and get a free consultation.