What Happens Now? Learn More About The Auto Accident Process
You are likely owed monetary compensation if another driver hit you and you have injuries. It is difficult to know what to do first, however. Read on for a summary of what happens after an accident happens so you can be ready.
Get a Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve. The sooner you get representation, the better. Hiring a lawyer will prevent you from falling into traps set by the at-fault driver's insurer. The lawyer will set a course that invites the other side to offer you a settlement that will pay you for your damages.
Pay Attention to Your Medical Treatment
As you might have been told by your lawyer, few things are more important in an auto accident case than medical treatment. You must see a doctor as soon as possible and follow their orders. Provide your lawyer with permission to access your medical records and send them any medical bills or statements as they arrive. Keep a journal of your medical treatment, medications, appointments, what the doctor told you, and more.
Try for a Settlement
You might consider settling your case rather than taking it to court. When you and the other side agree to a settlement, the case ends quickly. If you have a personal injury lawyer representing you, you can rest assured that you will be paid what you deserve.
You and your lawyer together will determine the amount of money you are owed. Then a letter is sent to the other side and the negotiations begin. Though your chances of settling the case outside of court are very high, getting paid what you deserve can be challenging.
Your success depends on the quality of the evidence to support your damages. For example, having letters from surgeons and diagnostic test results can be very convincing when trying to be paid for future medical treatment costs. Pay statements and proof of how much time you missed from work can help you be paid for lost wages. Every form of damage should be backed up with evidence.
Take the Case to Court
Though many cases settle outside of court, you might end up in court. This can take longer to resolve but you can end up with more money if the judge and jury see things your way. This is a critical decision since not all cases are appropriate for court. Close consultation with your lawyer about this issue is key.
Speak to a personal injury lawyer to find out more.