What to Expect: Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury claims can vary depending on the unique factors of each case. There are still some common steps that you can expect to take during your claim process, no matter what your case involves. Here are some things to expect during the course of your claim.
Step 1: Consult a Lawyer
The first step you should take in your claim is to meet with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can provide valuable knowledge and experience to help your claim move forward smoothly and quickly. The can also help you understand your legal options, and choose the best path for your case.
Step 2: Investigation
Your lawyer will conduct an in-depth investigation into your accident. During this time, they will gather evidence, locate witnesses, and review information about your medical bills, income, and earning power. They may also collaborate with medical experts, accident reconstruction experts, and others to build your case.
Step 3: Send Your Demand Package
After the investigation is concluded, your lawyer will prepare a demand package. This package will include a carefully drafted demand letter, which will outline the accident, your injuries, and your damages. This letter will be accompanied by any supporting documents, photographs, witness statements, and video recordings to support your claims. It is critical that your demand package is strong, since it sets the tone for your case. A well put-together package can cause an insurance company to take your claim more seriously.
Step 4: Negotiation
After the insurance company has reviewed your demand package, they will make a counteroffer. It is highly likely that this offer will be far lower than the value of your claim. You and your attorney will have the choice to accept the counteroffer, or respond with another offer. Negotiation can help you avoid the costs of litigation, and you may still end your case with a satisfactory settlement.
Step 5: Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If negotiations are moving too slowly, or you cannot get the insurance company to settle on a suitable amount, you may need to file a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit does not commit you to litigation, and it is possible to reach a settlement before you ever reach the hearing date. A lawsuit may be used to spur an insurance company into action. If you need to file a lawsuit, your attorney can help you and represent you throughout the case.
At Goldstein, Heslop, Steele, Clapper, Oswalt, and Smith, we are dedicated to guiding our clients through every step of their case, no matter how complex or lengthy it may be. We believe in offering our clients the high-quality, experienced legal counsel they deserve. For more than a century, our Altoona personal injury lawyers have supported injured individuals and have fought for their rights. Let us assist you with your case.
Contact our firm today to start your case with a consultation.