Being injured in an accident is frightening, especially when you do not know the steps to take to file a claim. The first thing you should do is to make sure that your injuries are tended to, and the second is to contact your Clearwater personal injury attorney to help you file a personal injury claim. The following are frequently asked questions about the first steps to filing a personal injury claim with your Clearwater personal injury attorney.

I Was Injured in an Accident. What Do I Do Now?

As mentioned above, the first thing you should do is make sure that you are alright. Depending on the type of accident, you may need to go to the hospital to be checked out. Your health is the most important thing. After you have tended to your medical needs, there are several steps you should then take to ensure that your personal injury case will be as solid as it can. Those steps are as follows:

• Gather all evidence from the scene of the accident. Be sure to take photographs of the area and where the accident occurred. Any evidence that can show who is at fault will be useful for your case.
• Keep a log of everything that has occurred since you have been in the accident. You will want to keep track of all medical expenses, loss wages, or hospital stays.
• Gather all information from anyone who may have witnessed the accident. These witnesses may be able to help your personal injury claim since they were present at the accident.
• Keep a log of everyone you have spoken with regarding your accident and injuries.
• Let the party who caused the accident know that you plan on filing a claim for your injuries that occurred during the accident.

When Should I File my Claim? Is There a Time Limit in Order to Receive Compensation?

There is a time limit to file personal injury claims. That time limit is called the “statutes of limitations.” That means that there is a certain time period allowed for you to file your claim in. If you pass that time and do not file, then you may never be able to file the claim and receive compensation. Getting a settlement for a personal injury case is typically time-consuming, so you may not want to wait too long before you fie. Be sure to check with your Clearwater personal injury attorney about the “statutes of limitations” for your case.

When Should I Notify the Other Party That I Am Filing a Claim?

There is no set time limit in which to notify the other party; however, this is something that should be done in a timely manner. The faster you act, the faster that your case may be settled. Something to remember is that you do not always have to file a claim, even if you tell the other party that you are. Giving a notice to the other party places a hold on your right to file a lawsuit.

What Is My Time Limit for Filing Against the Government?

If you are filing a claim against a government employee or agency, then you have a limited amount of time to do so. All states have different time limits, however they typically range from 30 days to one year. You will need to check with your personal injury attorney for the limitations in your state. If you fail to file your personal injury claim within the time limit, then your right to recover any damages for your injuries or personal property will most likely be lost to you.

Is Free Legal Help Available?

If you are filing a personal injury claim, you can always file without an attorney. However, an attorney will be able to help you settle your claim and protect your rights. Most attorneys will review your claim papers for no charge and collect payment once you receive a settlement.

Contact Your Clearwater Personal Injury Attorney Today

For more information on what to do after your personal injury, call the Coleman Law Firm at (727) 461-7474. Our Clearwater personal injury attorney will help fight for what you deserve!