After an accident the shock and physical pain can be very overwhelming. The last thing you may be thinking about is legal matters. However, you should still make the proper documentations. Whether or not you decide to pursue a claim, at least you have the information ready.

First, photograph your injuries and the damages to your car. Gather all automobile insurance policies in your household for evaluation by an attorney, and inform your insurance company of the accident. Obtain legal advice before filling out insurance documents, giving recorded statements to any insurance company, or meeting with any insurance company representative. It is especially important to consult an attorney before giving a statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Do not sign any check or document from any insurance company without first consulting an experienced personal injury attorney.

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WHO CAN HELP YOU MAKE THE CLAIM?

It is best to contact legal professionals who specialise in making accident claims. Their job is to make an injury claim in your name, and spearhead the case so you can get the compensation you deserve. Many services are based on a “No Win No Fee” method, which means if you lose your accident claim, you don’t pay them a penny. If your injury compensation claim succeeds, the solicitor recovers all their fees or bills (payments, costs of injury assessment, medical examinations, court fees, etc.) from the losing side or their insurance company and you should get 100% of your injury compensation.

Some people try to handle the injury claim themselves, but these are some things to consider before you decide whether you’re “ready” to take on that responsibility:

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1. How long will the claim take to be dealt with?

This is a difficult question. A rough average would be two years however this can greatly vary. It is irresponsible and unfair to settle a claim before your injuries have stabilised as you may be missing due compensation. To that end, it is almost impossible to settle a claim within 12 months. The time it takes to settle a claim depends almost entirely upon the types of injuries you have an the time that they take to recover. The length of claim is also determined by the legal process that all claims must take and sometimes the attitude of the defendant insurer or solicitor towards a particular claim. Your solicitor will able to give you a rough indication as to the time your claim will take and a more definite indication once medical reports are received and in light of any other complications that may arise.

2. How much will my claim be worth?

No solicitor, irrespective of their experience or knowledge is able to tell you how much your claim will be worth from the outset. This is because the amount your claim will be worth is based upon the medical reports that will be complied as evidence in your claim and your individual circumstances including the impact of the injury on your life. At times liability considerations (e.g. contributory negligence) can have a significant impact on the quantum of your claim. Once all relevant reports have been obtained and information considered your solicitor will be able to recommend offers to you to submit to the defendant, however before such time any indication as the quantum of your claim is a mere stab in the dark.
I have been involved in an accident.

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