How to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit: Step by Step Guide
Did you know that more than 6.5 million vehicle collisions occurred last year alone?
Of those collisions, nearly half involved a serious bodily injury to one of the drivers. Accidents can be scary, but they can have serious health and financial implications, as well.
If you’ve experienced an accident yourself, you may be wondering what to do next. Filing a personal injury lawsuit is an important part of the recovery process.
In this brief guide, we’ll outline 6 easy steps you should take when filing a personal injury lawsuit. Read on to learn more.
1. Visit a Medical Professional
If you don’t feel any pain from your accident, you might think it is okay to skip out on medical treatment, but this step is not to be missed.
The physical onset of pain from accidental injuries such as whiplash can be delayed by days, weeks, or even months. A doctor may be able to determine if you have an injury, even if you don’t feel pain.
This step is also important when it comes to your personal injury case. If you do not go to a doctor following the accident, the defense will likely call into question the legitimacy of your claim.
2. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injury cases can be complicated. Hiring an expert increases the likelihood you’ll get the result you deserve.
Even if you plan to handle your claim on your own, a professional can make sure you have all of the information you need to simplify the process and help you win.
3. Set Up a Claim
The purpose of setting up a personal injury claim is to inform the liable party of your intention to file. Doing so can help you reach a settlement more quickly.
4. Gather Your Evidence
Evidence for your claim may include medical records, expert testimony, injury prognosis, proof of property damage, invoices, and future cost estimates.
An attorney can help you attack step four from all angles. A good rule of thumb is to document everything and save all receipts related to the accident.
5. Consider a Settlement
An attorney can work with you to try to reach a settlement on your behalf. This involves getting you the compensation you deserve without going through the full process of filing.
Many personal injury cases are resolved this way.
6. File the Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the parties involved are not able to reach a settlement, the final step is to actually file a suit.
Filing is a more complicated way to resolve your case. It involves a litigation period and going to court. If you do decide to file, having an attorney will make the process easy.
Yanchuck Berman Is on Your Side
For those looking to file a personal injury lawsuit in the St. Petersburg area, our team is here to help. We have been in business for over 100 years, and we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients.
The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can start working for you. There is no risk with our firm because if we don’t win, you don’t pay. Contact us today for a free consultation.