5 Important Steps in Filing an Injury Claim

If you have an injury claim due to the negligence of another party, there is a process that must be followed to recover the compensation you deserve. Failure to follow the proper procedure can put the likelihood of you receiving full (or any) compensation in jeopardy. While every injury case is different and the circumstances surrounding the accident vary, below are five steps to follow when filing an injury claim:

1. Seek Medical Attention

After an accident occurs, your health must be your top priority. You should seek medical attention as quickly as possible. The sooner your injuries are assessed and treated, the better not only for your recovery but also for your case. Medical documentation of your injuries is critical evidence in filing an injury claim. Medical records are persuasive evidence that support your injury claim.

2. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly

As soon as you are able, you should notify your insurance company about the accident. Even though you were not at fault for the accident, you may need your insurance coverage for property damage or if an uninsured motorist hurt you. Providing prompt notice to your insurance company ensures that you remain compliant with your policy terms.

3. Collect Evidence to Support Your Injury Claim

As the plaintiff in an injury lawsuit, you have the burden of proof, which means you must have solid evidence supporting your claims. It is imperative that you gather medical records, police reports, photographs of the accident and your injuries, witnesses, and any other relevant pieces of evidence. The more evidence you collect to support your injury claim, the more likely you will prove your claims and establish liability.

4. Confer with a Lawyer

The legal process of filing an injury claim can be complicated, and you should consult with an experienced attorney for help. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with applicable insurance companies, assist with gathering evidence, and file the necessary legal paperwork. Although many injury claims are resolved through negotiation and settlement, you need an attorney who is prepared to go to trial if necessary. Having an attorney on your side will vastly improve your chances of recovering the compensation you are entitled to for your injury claim.

5. Go to Trial (if necessary)

As mentioned above, many personal injury cases are resolved out of court. However, there are instances when going to trial is necessary. Having a personal injury attorney experienced in trial work is critical. Plus, insurance companies are more likely to negotiate a fair settlement with you if they know your lawyer is prepared to litigate your injury claim before a judge or jury.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney for Guidance

Filing a personal injury claim can be stressful, time-consuming, and difficult to navigate without help. Although the above steps provide a guide, an attorney can assist you with each step. Schedule a consultation with an injury lawyer to discuss your case and learn your options for recovering the compensation you deserve.

If you were injured because of someone’s negligence, our personal injury attorney aggressively represents clients in slip, trip and fall injury cases. At Babbit, Mitchell & Ogle Law Firm, our OKC personal injury lawyers work individually with each of our clients to address specific needs that each client has in their respective case. Helping our clients with various issues related to their case is what eliminates the stress for our clients and helps them return to their everyday lives. Our firm’s focus is to make sure that all our clients’ needs are met and that each of our clients is adequately compensated for their loss and pain and suffering. Contact us today!