Millions of Americans get into car accidents each year. These numbers are staggering, and they underscore just how dangerous motor vehicle accidents can be. If you’re involved in one, know that you’re not alone and there are resources available to provide you with the assistance that you need. It can be difficult to get through the recovery process, particularly if you’ve sustained a serious or life-altering injury, but there are people and services that are standing by and ready to assist. It can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to know what steps to take. If you’re not sure where to start, read on to find out what to do if you’ve been injured in some type of accident.
What should you do if you’re injured in an accident?
If you have been in a car accident, even if you do not think you are injured, you should seek medical attention immediately. Many injuries, such as whiplash, are not immediately apparent but can cause lasting damage if not treated. Early treatment can ensure that you receive the best possible care and that your injuries do not worsen. If you are unable to seek medical attention on your own, you should ask a friend or family member to take you to the hospital or to your doctor. Not only will this allow you to recover from your injuries, but it will also provide documentation of your injuries in case you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit.
There are many reasons why you might want to speak with a personal injury lawyer after being involved in an accident. Perhaps the most obvious one is that you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can file a lawsuit and pursue the damages you deserve. Your lawyer can teach you about your legal rights and options after an accident. For example, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the other driver’s insurance company. If you were injured as a result of a defective product, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit. A search for “attorneys personal injury” should help you find some qualified legal assistance in your area.
Why do you need to seek help right away?
If you have been injured in an accident, you need to file a personal injury claim as soon as possible. The statute of limitations, which is the amount of time you have to file a claim, is usually two years, but it can vary significantly depending on which state you reside in. You’ll need time to gather as much evidence as possible. This includes medical records, photographs of the accident scene, and witness statements. That’s why you should get the process started early by meeting with a lawyer as soon as you’re able to after your accident.
You may be wondering how you’ll afford to file a claim. Fortunately, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they don’t get paid until you do. This means you don’t have to worry about the cost of filing your claim, and you can focus on getting better. If you’re hiring an attorney, be sure to ask about their contingency fee arrangement. Keep in mind that not all personal injury cases go to trial. Many are settled out of court. If your case is settled, your attorney will take their fee as a percentage of the settlement amount.
Although the aftermath of an accident can be scary, there are a lot of resources and aid available. You should always start by having a doctor check you over to make sure that you haven’t suffered any major injuries. This is critical even if there are no visible signs of trauma, as some injuries may not be apparent and others may develop later. Visiting the doctor also gives you documentation of the injuries you sustained, which could be needed if you decide to file a personal injury claim. When you have medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering to deal with, you will benefit greatly from having the compensation that you’re entitled to.