Getting hurt in an accident does more than just cause physical pain. There is frustration, uncertainty, and a lot of questions about what to do next. If you are thinking about filing a personal injury claim, it helps to know that the choices you make right now matter.
“Filing a personal injury claim is rarely one simple step. It is a process, and it all begins with the injury itself and the choices made in those first hours and days afterward. What you do, or do not do, can shape the outcome down the line,” says Geoff Brown of Bordas and Bordas Attorneys.
This article breaks down the steps you can take to make the most of your case.
Step 1: Get Treated Early, Even When You Feel Fine
Most people are unaware of how easily they can overlook an injury in the first few hours after an accident. It might feel like nothing more than a bump or a bruise, but your body can hide the real damage. Conditions like whiplash, sprains, or even internal injuries often take time to show.
Getting checked by a doctor early can help protect you from unexpected health issues. It also helps create a clear timeline that can back up your story if you decide to file a claim. It is a straightforward step that can help both your recovery and your case.
Step 2: Report the Incident Promptly
Once you have taken care of your health, the next step is to report the incident as soon as possible—the person you report to will depend on how you got hurt. If you are involved in a car accident, call the police immediately so that an official report is filed. For workplace injuries, tell your supervisor or employer immediately, even if the injury seems small at first. If you were hurt on someone else’s property, please report the incident to the property manager or the person responsible for the space.
Reporting early matters. It creates a written record that shows when and where the injury happened, which can be important later if you decide to file a personal injury claim. It also helps ensure that the right people take action to address any safety issues that could harm someone else in the future.
Step 3: Collect and Preserve Evidence
If you decide to file a personal injury claim, the responsibility of proving what happened will fall on you. That means gathering and holding onto any evidence you can from the start. If your situation allows, take photos or videos of the scene, the surrounding area, any damage, and even your own injuries. The sooner you document these details, the less likely it is that anything will be forgotten, lost, or cleaned up.
As your recovery begins, it is equally important to keep copies of all medical records, bills, and notes related to your treatment. If you are able, write down how the injury has affected your daily life: the activities you can no longer do, what pain you are dealing with, or work you have missed. All of these pieces help tell the whole story later, when memories may have faded.
Step 4: Talk to a West Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer
Once you have taken care of your immediate needs, it is time to reach out to a lawyer who understands cases like yours. Not every lawyer will be the right fit. A real estate lawyer or someone who only handles contract disputes will not have the experience you need if you have been injured in a car crash, a fall, or any other accident. Look for someone who focuses on personal injury cases, as these cases present their own unique set of challenges.
When you meet with the lawyer for the first time, go in with an open mind. Be prepared to ask how they view your case, what they will require from you, and how their fees are structured. Do not hesitate to ask what happens if the case does not work out in your favor. These early conversations help you understand your options and what lies ahead.
Also Read: Why You Need to Contact a Lawyer after a Personal Injury Incident
