Have you recently been injured in an accident? If so, then you may be exploring how to file a personal injury claim and what the process looks like, and this is a good move.
Not only can a successful personal injury claim help ensure that your medical bills are handled, but it can also provide financial compensation for any subsequent losses, such as lost wages or psychological suffering.
In this post, we go over the intricacies of filing a personal injury claim from start to finish.
Gather Your Documentary Evidence
Gathering evidence is key to having the best possible outcome in any incident. Making sure your case is strong involves collecting as much paperwork and documentation as possible.
- Start with medical bills and records.
- Collect any available, relevant insurance reports.
- Gather any police reports related to the incident.
- Include any bank statements that specifically detail the cost of your damage, treatment, and recovery.
- If applicable, gather any pictures of the damage. This can include physical property, such as in a car wreck. It could apply to pictures of your injuries, including medical imaging.
The more evidence you have related to the incident, the better equipped you will be for success.
Locate the Responsible Party
Liability is the key component of any personal injury case. Accurately assessing the at-fault party allows you to hold them responsible for their behavior. When possible, this person’s insurance provider directly and discuss the legal options available.
File With the Insurance Company ASAP
Be aware of the time limit to file your claim. Prompt filing can be the difference between getting compensation for or having your claim completely dismissed. Move quickly. Use all the resources at hand to file properly, and regularly check in on the claim’s progress.
Keep Track of All Communication Between You and the Insurance Company
Detailed records are essential to ensuring that all necessary information is collected. You can notes made during phone calls or save emails sent with key documents attached. Make sure your records include the date, time, and people involved in the communication. Doing so makes it easier to reference later.
Accurate records prepare for any questions that arise, and they protect you from getting the runaround from unscrupulous insurers. Taking ownership of these interactions keeps you informed and in control when dealing with a claim or checking on coverage details.
Receiving a Response
Waiting for a response from the insurance company about your claim can be a nerve-wracking experience, full of anticipation and uncertainty. Depending on the size and complexity of your claim, it can take some time for the insurance company to review, process, and deliver its conclusion.
In the meantime, utilize the resources that are available to you. Check the insurer’s website or contact them directly with questions. Get as much information as you can. Ultimately, this additional support will help you stay in touch with your claim’s status.
Contact an Attorney
Remember, insurance companies often try to deny or diminish benefits whenever possible. Their business relies on taking in as much money as they can and doling out as little as they are allowed.
Even if your claim seems simple, you should include an attorney in the process. They can help keep everyone honest and moving forward. A lawyer can help you fix any mistakes you make and guide you in collecting any evidence you may have missed. If everything goes wrong, they can provide other options, and they can take the matter to court for you when needed.
Masella Law Firm, P.A. can help you file your claim and keep insurance companies in line. If you need help, contact our office online or call (803) 938-4952.