Here’s a disclaimer: personal injury claims are not the same. They vary depending on the type of accident you’ve suffered (for instance, a car accident vs. slip and fall on municipal property); and the unique circumstances of your accident.
A claim may be settled in as little as a few weeks, or it may run into months, as complex claims do. In this blog, we’re going to provide a step-by-step guide to a typical personal injury claim our personal injury lawyers in St. Catharines see.
Personal Injury Claims Process: Personal Injury Lawyers in St. Catharines Explain
Accidents can happen to anyone, and if you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
After an accident, your priority should be seeking medical attention. Even if you don’t feel badly injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Not only will this ensure that you receive the necessary treatment, but it will also provide a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in your personal injury claim.
Step 2: Report the Accident
After seeking medical attention, the next step is to report the accident to the appropriate authorities. If you’re involved in a car accident, you must report it to the police. If you’re injured on someone else’s property, report it to the property owner or manager. Reporting the accident will create an official record of what happened, which can be useful when filing a personal injury claim.
Step 3: Contact Personal Injury Lawyers
If you’re considering filing a personal injury claim, it’s essential to contact a personal injury lawyer. Experience matters, as do resources. If you’re going toe-to-toe with an insurance company or the municipality, you need a personal injury law firm with the resources to advocate your claim vigorously.
Step 4: Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Your lawyer will work with investigators to gather evidence that can support your claim. This may include witness statements, medical records, and accident reports. The evidence collected will be used to build a strong case and maximize your compensation.
Step 5: Negotiation and Settlement
Once your lawyers are armed with the evidence they need; they will begin negotiating with the insurance company or other party responsible for the accident. They will work to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries and losses. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court.
Step 6: Court Proceedings
If your case goes to court, your lawyer will represent you and present your case to a judge or jury. The court will determine the amount of compensation you’re entitled to based on the evidence presented.
Here’s Why You Need to Work With Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers in St. Catharines
A personal injury claim isn’t just about the facts, it’s about you. You need a team that can understand your priorities and has the resources to pursue your claim successfully. It’s why for over 140 years, we’ve been the go-to personal injury law firm in the Niagara region. We don’t just get your compensation; we are your guides through a traumatic time.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident with us. We’ll help you identify your options and what your next steps should be.