How to File a Personal Injury Claim
Getting injured can put you back physically, mentally and financially. Understanding how to make a personal injury claim to lessen your expenses due to the injury can help immensely, but many people don’t know how to properly do it. Many don’t realize there are deadlines dictating when you have to file a claim by, and that there is certain pertinent information to keep records of. Here’s your guide to filing a personal injury claim.
See a Doctor
When you’ve been injured, it’s crucial that you see a doctor right away. A doctor’s written examination proves that your injury occurred, and that it occurred on a certain time and date close to the accident. If you don’t have proof that the two are connected, an insurance company may try to avoid paying you, claiming that your injury happened later. If your claim is denied because of this, consider contacting a personal injury attorney to handle your case. You can find one by looking online for one near you, such as “personal injury attorney Columbia MD.”
Gather Pertinent Information
At the scene of the accident, you should take pictures of what happened and the damage. Jot down personal notes of the events so that you can remember later. If you were in a car accident with someone else, exchange driver information like name, insurance info and how to contact each other. Keep all medical records, including any emergency services like ambulance fees, as these could all potentially be covered.
Contact Your Insurance
Regardless of who was at fault for causing your injury, you need to inform the insurance company that an accident has happened. They can guide you on what information to collect and how to proceed if you aren’t sure. It is essential that they know about the injury shortly after it has occurred.
Make a Claim
Your state has a statute of limitations on the amount of time (following your injury) that you have to file a claim. If you miss the deadline, which is two years for most states, you cannot get compensation, even if your claim is valid. Make sure to check your state limitations before doing anything else. Not everyone needs a lawyer when they file a claim, as some cases are pretty simple. Others that involve complex issues, like a lot of money or disputes over fault, may need professional help. You can always consult with a lawyer first before deciding to file.
