Whether you sustained serious injuries in a car accident or suffered a harmful fall while at work, you deserve compensation if you were injured through no fault of your own. If you decide to file a personal injury claim, there are some tried-and-true steps you should take.

How to File a Personal Injury Claim

Sorting Out Insurance

If you feel someone else is liable for the injury you’ve sustained, the first step is to find out if this person has insurance that can cover the damage. For instance, if you’ve been injured in an automobile accident, the other driver’s insurance may provide for damages. If the person who is liable for your injury doesn’t have insurance or any assets to speak of, you may not see much or any compensation after filing a personal injury claim. Conversely, if that person has insurance coverage, it’s to your benefit to file a claim.

Deciding to Hire an Attorney

If your case is complex and you’ve suffered a serious injury, find a qualified personal injury lawyer. Luckily, many attorneys offer a free initial consultation to determine whether you have a case. A personal injury attorney can evaluate the facts of your claim and lay out what the legal options are. Many attorneys will offer to take payment for their services only if they resolve the case in your favor.

Pursuing Your Claim

Your attorney will assist you in filing a claim with the other party’s insurance provider. A lawyer can help you determine what information to provide the insurance company with, which usually includes the at-fault person’s insurance number, your information, and a simple statement that you have been injured and will pursue damages. From here, your lawyer will work on your behalf in negotiations and in court, if necessary, to secure compensation.

Your personal injury lawsuit will more than likely get resolved before it enters the courtroom. Most cases are settled, and some claims are even decided before they’re filed in court. However, be prepared with experienced legal counsel on your side in case your claim does go into litigation.

Hensley Law Office in Flatwoods, KY, has 24 years of legal experience in areas such as personal injury, workers’ compensation, and social security law. The firm also has relationships with medical experts who can help your case. Call the attorneys at (606) 836-3117 to set up a consultation, or read more about personal injury claims on their website.