Experiencing a personal injury due to the negligence or actions of others can be overwhelming and disorienting. Knowing what steps to take immediately following an injury is crucial for protecting your well-being and preserving your legal rights. 

Here’s a guide on what to do if you’ve suffered a personal injury in North Carolina, and how SeiferFlatow can help you through the process.

Steps to Take After a Personal Injury

Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should be your top priority. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Be as detailed as possible when discussing your injuries with your physician; mention every ache and pain to ensure that you have proper medical documentation for your potential personal injury claim.

Remember that insurance companies look for gaps between when you were injured and when you were treated to avoid paying your claim, so delaying medical treatment can not only exacerbate injuries but also weaken your personal injury claim. 

Document the Scene

If you’re physically able, gather evidence from the scene of the accident. Take photographs or videos of the surroundings, including any hazards or contributing factors. Obtain contact information from witnesses who may provide testimony later.

Report the Incident

Report the incident to the appropriate authorities, whether it’s the police, property owner, or supervisor at your workplace. Filing a formal report creates an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for your personal injury claim. Review your report carefully for accuracy, even the smallest mistake can have an impact on your personal injury claim. 

Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

Always hire an experienced personal injury attorney. Even if the responsible party’s insurance company offers you a settlement, it’s important to hire an attorney before agreeing to anything to make sure you’re being treated fairly. A seasoned personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance and support; they are well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies and can help you understand your rights and the full extent of the compensation you may be entitled to. By having an attorney by your side, you can rest assured that your best interests are being protected and that you are receiving the appropriate legal advice.

Preserve Evidence

Preserve any physical evidence related to the accident, such as damaged property, clothing, or medical records. This includes creating a paper trail of your injuries; keep a detailed record of your injuries, symptoms, and medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, and rehabilitation. If there is an officer at the scene, mention to them that you feel sore so that they can notate it in the accident report. 

Avoid Making Statements

Refrain from making any statements or admissions of fault to insurance adjusters, representatives from the other party, or on social media.  Anything you say could potentially be used against you during the claims process.

Additionally, don’t post anything that would compromise your claim on social media while your case is still open. This includes performing rigorous exercises or activities while claiming you can’t work due to your injuries.

Let SeiferFlatow Guide You Through Your Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact SeiferFlatow for legal guidance. As experienced personal injury attorneys in North Carolina, our team specializes in handling a variety of personal injury cases, including auto accidents, trucking accidents, nursing home neglect or abuse, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and catastrophic injuries. Our team can provide legal guidance and representation to ensure your rights are protected. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Your road to recovery starts here.