From the outset, it should be kept in mind that every legal case is different. And the issue with so much variability in the case itself is that it is almost impossible to predict the exact outcome of your case ahead of time. This is, of course, until a closer investigation by a legal expert.
Hire a lawyer as soon as possible!
The first and most important thing you can do if you have been involved in an accident is to hire legal representation as soon as possible. Not only is it a time of the essence, but contacting a personal injury lawyer who can see to your case means that you will be better prepared for your case from the start.
Did you know that there are various types of payments required to be paid, with different caps depending on the state? In Colorado, for example, in addition to economic and non-economic damages for pain and suffering, punitive damages are also ordered if you have been injured due to someone else’s negligent behavior. But, the laws are extremely complex.
The ultimate aim of making a claim is to receive financial compensation for losses and the personal injury lawyers in Denver can tell you that it’s essential you work within your state. This is because you’ll need to hire an expert who is up-to-date with new bylaws and regulations who will ensure that you are overall in a stronger position to get the most out of your claim.
Until a lawyer can go through all of your records to calculate the value of future losses – while negotiating with insurance parties and likely a counter-claim – you should do your best to start getting your paperwork in order. If you’d like to start preparing for your case until you have someone to represent you, here are some helpful tips to get started:
Start tracking all of your medical expenses
Medical bills, ambulance fees, hospital, and nursing care charges, as well as home-based care or wound nursing after a big accident, it can feel like there are endless bills to pay. If you choose to avoid medical checks, you may be putting yourself more at risk of unknown worsening of injury and secondary infections, for example. Therefore, for your safety – and obvious legal purposes – you will need to be thoroughly examined for the extent of your injuries.
Keep an accurate paper trail
Because doctors and medical professionals can also give an account of your suffering and pain – known as non-economic damages – getting a medical doctor to rate your pain levels to give a more accurate account of your suffering for non-economic damages is a crucial first step in the process. Other measurements of non-economic damages include scarring, disfigurement, and diminished quality of life.
Therefore, even smaller expenses and personal notes about the psychological impact and recovery should be kept safe to use in your claim. Even if this is only required a year down the line, don’t forget that any single piece of evidence may make a huge difference to the outcome of your case.
Understand your time frame
Depending on the type of accident and the date it occurred, you need to ensure your deadlines and ruling procedures for filing a claim are satisfied completely. Having unnecessarily outstanding documents is an easy way to give up on yourself and the compensation you deserve. Make sure you and your lawyer understand the time involved and are well prepared to stay on track with your timeline. Having a good understanding of the next months and even years ahead will also help you, mentally, to stay on track with your recovery and not get despondent about your case.
Stay in close contact with your lawyer
Throughout your case, your lawyer will need to become an essential part of your life. Through aggressive negotiations, your lawyer will be fighting for your settlement. Make sure you prioritize this relationship, as their work will directly impact the quality of your life after a major accident.
Pay your bills
Unfortunately, until you get paid out by the settlement claim, you will still need money to pay for the current bills. This can be done in various ways, including having your insurance company pay upfront and then receiving remuneration when your case is settled. In addition to legal resources, the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment does make provision for financial assistance plans. Utilize this resource by checking what you qualify for.
Though it may feel extremely frustrating, you must remain committed to your case and stay as patient as you can. Legal battles can take a great toll on personal and family stress, but getting the most of your claim is worth it!