07/20/2023
What to do after a Severe Personal Injury
If you’ve been in an accident or the victim of a serious injury, you may be wondering, “What do I do if I’ve been severely hurt?” You’re unsure of the injury recovery process, and want to be sure you don’t make any mistakes which could be costly. Here’s a look at the steps to take prior to filing a severe or catastrophic injury lawsuit.
1. Seek Medical Help
First and foremost, it’s essential that you seek medical care right away. Even if your injuries seem minor at the time, they could be hiding serious problems which won’t be symptomatic until later.
A prime example of this is a concussion from a car accident or while playing a sport. Many people are able to continue their activities even after receiving a head injury. It may be many hours, or even days, later before symptoms begin showing. The longer you go without treatment for a severe injury, the greater are your chances of longer-term damage.
2. Keep Detailed Records
As soon as you’re able, write down all details of your accident. If you wait too long, your memory will fade, and you may miss an important fact. Get a copy of the police report if one exists or any other documentation about the incident, such as insurance records or medical reports.
Continue to track the effects of the accident, including all medical treatment and how you respond. Note all symptoms, even those you may not be sure are related to the incident.
Don’t forget to record how your life has changed, and whether you need help getting dressed or getting to doctor appointments.
Catastrophic injury lawsuits can seek awards for more than the actual medical expenses. Your suit can also include compensation for the pain and suffering involved and the impact it has on your life. The more detail you provide to substantiate your claims, the stronger your case will be.
3. Hire an Experienced Attorney
Choose a personal injury attorney with experience in your situation, whether it’s a car accident, workplace injury or something else. Meet with them to discuss your case, and bring all of your documentation with you. The more information you can provide, the better prepared an attorney will be to provide effective legal counsel for your situation.
The attorney will construct a case based on the information you provide and any other documentation they can obtain. They’ll give you an estimated amount you can expect to receive for the lawsuit, based on the facts. Continue to work with your attorney and do what they request in order to ensure that a solid case is presented in court.
Following these steps should help you begin the process of seeking – and receiving – fair compensation for your situation. Talk to us at the Deuterman Law Group for answers to your questions about how to properly bring a catastrophic injury claim.
