8 Tips to Help Maximize Your North Carolina Injury Claim

Accidents resulting in injuries can occur at any time. However, handling the legal aspects of a personal injury claim can be quite arduous. There are many pitfalls that can lower the amount of compensation awarded for the accident, which is why you should understand how to get the best injury claim settlement.

The following are eight tips to help maximize your personal injury claim in North Carolina:

1. Seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Whether you suffered an injury in a car accident or due to a slip and fall in a grocery store, you must first obtain medical attention so a medical professional can address your injuries. Failing to seek medical attention immediately after an accident can sometimes compromise your claim and reduce the amount of damages you can recover.
2. Watch what you say at the scene of the accident. Although you must communicate with the other party after an accident, be aware of what you say to other parties. You are not required to say who is at fault or to offer additional information.
3. File a police report. A police report can act as a documentation of important information, including the names and contact information of each party involved. Furthermore, the report itself can serve as a record of facts related to the accident, which can be used in court if a lawsuit occurs.
4. Remain cautious when speaking with insurance providers. Remember, insurance companies are looking out for their own best interests, which means that they will try to find any way possible to reduce your compensation, or deny your claim entirely. It may be helpful to have a lawyer help deal with third parties, such as insurance adjusters.
5. Avoid signing any documents or forms you don’t understand. If you are not sure how a form or document will affect you in the long run, do not sign them. Be especially wary of any documents that ask you to release the other party from liability or require you to forfeit your right to sue.
6. Keep accurate documentation of all costs and expenses related to your injury. Hospital bills, property damage costs, information on loss income, and insurance records help determine final settlement based on the expenses related to your accident.
7. Be aware of filing deadlines. In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases gives an injured individual three years from the date of the injury to go to civil court to file a lawsuit.
8. Obtain the legal services of an experienced Attorney. If you are demanding compensation for serious injuries, as well as pain and suffering, beyond a few thousand dollars, then hiring a skilled lawyer can help you recover the most favorable settlement possible.

If you suffered a serious injury due to the negligence and recklessness of another party, contact The Law Office of Donald R Strickland and schedule a consultation with our North Carolina personal injury lawyers today.