If someone else’s negligence caused you an injury that required medical treatment, you may be entitled to receive compensation. Sometimes, the at-fault party (or their insurance company) will offer you a settlement, but many times litigation is required.
This involves filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party, which means going through the motions of the public court process. These trials are often long and frustrating, especially when you aren’t fully prepared. Here are five things you should do before your personal injury case to give yourself a better chance of winning.
How To Prepare For a Personal Injury Lawsuit
1. See a Doctor in a Timely Manner
It is not only important to see a doctor immediately following your injury, you need to make sure you are following their directions precisely. Waiting too long to seek medical treatment, or failing to abide by orders can lead to the at-fault party questioning the legitimacy of your injuries, or claiming that you worsened your condition.
2. Contact Witnesses
If there were people around when the accident occurred, collect their contact information. Witness testimonies can often be the difference between receiving the compensation you deserve and walking away empty-handed.
3. Collect All Documentation
Everything you say in a court of law can and will be questioned, so make sure you can back up your claims with documentation. This includes police reports, records of doctor appointments, and receipts for medical treatments and other related costs (such as car rentals or repairs).
4. Use Discretion
Prior to the start of the trial, be wary of who you are sharing your information with. This pertains especially to what you post on social media. If any of your content contradicts your claims (ex: “five days after the accident and I’m feeling great!”), best believe this will be called out by the defendant. In extreme cases, insurance companies may even hire private investigators to follow you around with video cameras.
5. Contact an Attorney
Going to court without an attorney is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute – the odds aren’t in your favor. A qualified personal injury lawyer is familiar with the intricacies of the law and will prepare a case that gives you the best possible chance of winning. Many law offices won’t even charge a fee unless the case is won.
If you are preparing for a personal injury case in North Carolina or South Carolina, trust the attorneys at Stewart Law Offices to represent you. Contact us online to get started with a free consultation, or pick up the phone and call 866-783-9278.
