If you've been in an accident that was not your fault and suffered a personal injury as a result, you have a right to seek compensation from the individual(s) responsible. The legal process, however, can be more than a bit confusing, especially for those who have never dealt with personal injury law before. To help you better understand the legalities of filing a claim, below is a brief overview of the process.

A Guide to Personal Injury Claims 

1. Get Medical Attention

An accident can leave you with serious, life-limiting injuries, so first see a doctor if you haven't done so already. Not only are you looking out for your health, but you're also allowing your doctor to document your condition in medical records, which will only help any legal case that is eventually filed. If you don't seek medical help, an insurer, judge, or jury may assume you aren't as injured as you claim.

2. See if an Insurer Will Cover Your Injuries

The next step is to see if an insurer will cover the costs associated with the injury. In most cases, this will be the insurance company of the person who caused the accident. Their insurer may or may not choose to pay; it all depends on the details of your situation. Be sure to check with them before filing a formal claim.

3. Hire an Attorney

At this point, when an insurer denies your claim or puts up other roadblocks to compensation, it's time to hire an attorney. An attorney will work with you to explore all the legal options available. You will also get clear answers to any questions you have, as well as a legal strategy that aims to meet your goals and obtain resources you need and deserve.

4. File a Claim

Before proceeding to a full-fledged lawsuit, you may want to consider filing a third-party claim with the other party's insurer. This document states the basics of the accident and includes a statement that you intend to file a claim for compensation. From there, communication between your side and the other side commences, and you may be able to reach a settlement. If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, you have the option of filing a full lawsuit; this involves going to your local civil court and filing a formal complaint.

Have legal support at every step of a personal injury lawsuit by contacting the attorneys at Pater, Pater & Halverson. For more than a century, this Hamilton, OH, law office has offered clients representation in injury, family law, criminal defense, and estate planning matters. Call (513) 867-1411, visit their website, or message them on Facebook or Google+ to arrange a consultation.