5 Critical Steps to Take After Suffering a Personal Injury

Suffering a personal injury can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. In the aftermath, you must prioritize your physical and emotional recovery—that’s a given. But you must also protect your legal rights. 

Quick definition: A personal injury refers to physical, emotional, or psychological harm caused to an individual due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, leading to potential legal claims for compensation. Taking the right steps after an injury can make a significant difference, especially if you decide to push legal action. The experts at Breit Law have the details on how to get it done right. Read on.

1. Obtain a Police Report

First things first: are you safe? Have you already received medical attention? If yes, you can proceed with this step. For a more comprehensive overview, read our blog on the personal injury claims process here.

If your injury occurred in a law enforcement incident, like a car accident, you must obtain a police report. While the report may not be admissible in court, it can be valuable during negotiations with the opposing party. The report typically includes important details about the incident, such as the time, location, weather conditions, and even a preliminary assessment of fault. Additionally, it may contain contact information for witnesses, which can mean all the difference in your case.

2. Preserve Evidence

Preserving evidence is imperative to building a solid personal injury claim. Take detailed notes about what happened before, during, and after the incident as soon as possible. Include information about any parties involved, what was said, and how the incident affected you physically and mentally. Document your injuries, medical treatments, missed workdays, and any disruptions to your personal life, like canceled plans or strained relationships.

3. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

One of the most critical steps after suffering a personal injury is to consult a reputable personal injury attorney. Why? Because they understand how the legal world works and advocate for your case so you don’t have to. These legal professionals specialize in personal injury cases and can give invaluable guidance. It’s essential to contact an attorney to ensure you do not miss the statute of limitations for filing your personal injury lawsuit.

Your initial meeting with a personal injury attorney will help you understand your rights and the potential strength of your case. Be prepared to discuss the details of the incident, share any evidence you’ve collected, and ask questions about the legal process.

4. Gather Relevant Documentation

Your personal injury attorney will guide you in collecting essential documentation to support your claim. This may include medical records, photographs of the scene, witness statements, and any other evidence related to your injury. Your attorney will use this information to build a strong case on your behalf.

5. Start the Claims Process

With your personal injury attorney’s help, you can initiate the claims process. This typically involves notifying the responsible party’s insurance company and negotiating a settlement. Your attorney will communicate with the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has experienced a personal injury, don’t let the impact of pain and suffering take over. Take immediate action with Breit Law—the team with 36+ years of experience winning cases of all sizes. Contact us to take the first step.