Suffered Injuries Caused By Someone Else's Negligence? 4 Steps You Should Take To Protect Your Rights
Posted on: 13 May 2017
If you've been injured, through no fault of your own, you need to act fast to protect your rights. Depending on the severity of the injuries, and the impact it has on your life – including your ability to work – you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering. Here are four steps you should take to protect your rights, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Start an Injury Journal
When it comes to injuries, it can be difficult to remember how they affect you, especially if you don't document them. Unfortunately, that lack of documentation can make it difficult to prove how your injuries affected your life. That's where an injury journal comes in handy. As soon as you can, you should start documenting how your injuries are affecting you. Include information like how your injuries prevent you from working, or caring for your family. You should also include your daily pain levels, and the medications you're required to take.
Locate Potential Witnesses
If you've been injured through someone else's negligence, you need to locate potential witnesses. Those witnesses will help document the circumstances surrounding the accident. The last thing you want is to have your case turn into a situation of "your word versus the negligent party's word." As you locate witnesses, be sure to document their full names, addresses and phone numbers. You should also ask them to provide you with a brief written statement about what they remember from the incident. This will ensure that they don't forget the details should your case need to go to trial.
Seek Medical Care
If you've suffered injuries, you need to seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries can take a while to present symptoms, especially things like concussions, or muscle injuries. Going to the doctor early will allow them to identify injuries that you might not realize you have. Once you've gone to the doctor, be sure to follow the treatment plan they provide you with. It's also a good idea to obtain copies of all your medical records.
Speak to an Attorney
If you've been injured in an accident, you should speak to an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. This is particularly true if you're having a hard time receiving medical care. Your attorney will make sure that you receive the care you need for your injuries. They'll also help you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Lawyers like those at Hardee and Hardee LLP can help.
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