Five Things You Must Know Before You File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Sustaining an injury because of another party’s negligence can be quite devastating and traumatic. A skilled Salem Oregon personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation for your injuries by filing a lawsuit against the negligent party. Personal injury lawsuits are complicated and making even a small mistake can ruin your case. If you want to take legal action after an accident, make sure you know the following before you move forward:

Insurance Companies are Concerned Only About Their Interests

When you seek compensation for your injury, you will usually deal with the at-fault party’s insurance provider. You should know that insurance companies are not on your side and will use different tactics to reduce the amount they need to pay you after your accident. If you have an attorney on your side, they can handle communications with the insurance company to ensure you don’t say or do something that can get your case dismissed. 

Documentation is Important

If you want to win your lawsuit, you must document everything right after the accident. This includes taking photos and videos of the scene as well as seeing a doctor for a medical evaluation and ensure there is a record of your injuries. Also, it is important to get the contact information of any witnesses. 

You Don’t Deserve a Low Settlement

Your injury may have instantly changed your life especially if it is serious and debilitating. That is why you deserve to get fair compensation for it. Although a settlement offer from the insurance company can be tempting, it may not be enough to help you recover physically and financially. Your attorney can negotiate settlements for you before your case goes to trial and represents if litigation is needed. 

Moreover, compensation in personal injury lawsuits can be quite extensive and include lost wages, property damage, medical expenses, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. Your attorney will help you understand the amount of compensation you deserve to receive, so you don’t settle for less. 

You Need to Get Medical Treatment

Failing to seek medical treatment right after the accident can put your health at risk and ruin your injury case. The other party may use it against you as evidence that you did not suffer an injury from the accident or that your injury is less serious than you claimed. 

Litigation Might Be Necessary

Some personal injury lawsuits are not settled out of court. Because of this, you and your lawyer must prepare for court hearings. You should be ready to testify and you may need to appear at trial.