Smart Steps to Take After Filing a Personal Injury Claim

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

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Smart Steps to Take After Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Filing your personal injury case can be like running the first hurdle of a marathon race. Relief and confusion are the primary emotions felt, especially if you have no idea what comes next.

“After a claim is filed, the hard work starts. Staying organized and responsive can be key to protecting your interests and keeping the process moving in the right direction,” advises Lawrence A. LeBrocq, a seasoned attorney at Garces, Grabler & Lebrocq, P.C..

Knowing what to do next can be a turning point for your case.

Seek Well-Versed Personal Injury Litigation

This is the ideal time to start searching for a personal injury attorney, especially if you haven’t already. A good attorney who has experience handling personal injury cases knows the law and the ways of the New Jersey courts.

Insurance companies tend to take personal injury claims more seriously when they are filed through an attorney. A good attorney can negotiate the most favorable settlement for you. He can also prepare for a court trial if the settlement offer is not favorable. 

Having an attorney can also take some of the stress off your mind. You can focus on getting well, while the attorney handles the case. 

Avoid Accepting the First Settlement Offer

It’s natural to feel tempted to accept the settlement offer, especially when the medical bills are mounting. However, the problem with the first settlement offer is that it may not represent the full extent of the claim. In fact, the offer may not represent the full extent of the insurance company’s offer. 

Accepting the offer too early may deny you compensation for the future medical treatment that you might require. A personal injury claim can never be reopened once the settlement has been finalized.

A careful review helps to ensure that you understand what is included and what is missing. Taking a thoughtful approach helps to protect you from making short-term decisions that can lead to long-term regret. 

Be Patient Throughout the Claims Process

Personal injury claims, generally, are a lengthy process. In most cases, investigations, examinations, and settlements can take months. 

As much as being patient might not always be easy, especially when expenses begin to pile up, rushing through the claims process might jeopardize your claims. 

Insurance firms use this to their advantage, especially when they want to force a settlement, but being patient will allow more evidence to build up for your claims.

Maintain Clear Communication and Keep Proper Documentation

You should remain in close communication with your attorney throughout the claims process. In case of any change of medical condition, new bills, or new letters, always keep your attorney informed to avoid missing anything important. 

You should also keep all copies of all medical records, receipts, prescriptions, and notes related to your injury. Make sure to keep a record of dates of all medical visits, days off work, and conversations with insurance companies. 

By being clear and ensuring all information is documented, you are better placed to respond quickly to any questions that might arise. 

Get Your Settlement Agreement in Writing

When a settlement is reached, always ensure that a written agreement is included. Verbal agreements are not enough to provide the legal security you need. 

You should always read and understand the agreement before signing. Make sure that all terms and conditions of the agreement are clear. 

A clear agreement at this stage is important to prevent future regrets.

Final Remarks

Making a claim is a significant step; however, the way you deal with the claim afterwards is equally significant. Every action you take is going to impact the claim favorably or unfavorably.

With appropriate planning and guidance, along with consistent communication, you can progress with complete clarity. In New Jersey, making the right decisions is the key difference between a hasty resolution and a fair resolution.