Were you recently injured in an accident due to someone else’s actions or negligence? While the process of making a legal claim may seem complex, its goal is to ensure that the victim gets the compensation they deserve while giving the other party a fair opportunity to defend themselves. Luckily, a personal injury attorney can help support your position. 

4 Steps to Any Injury Claim

1. Collecting Evidence

As soon as you’re involved in an accident of any type, act to protect yourself from a legal and financial standpoint. That means collecting the names, contact information, and insurance details for anyone involved in the incident. Take pictures of any property damage that may have occurred and the general scene of the accident.

When you go to seek medical attention, collect copies of your medical documents. This is all information your personal injury attorney will need to help you obtain a fair amount in damages.

2. Filing a Complaint

The first step in initiating a civil suit is to file a complaint with the court, which your personal injury attorney will do for you. This involves briefly describing the incident and outlining the damages you’ll be seeking.

Once the complaint has been filed, a copy will be delivered, or served, to the defendant named on the complaint. They will usually hire attorneys of their own, who will draft a response.

3. Entering the Discovery Phase 

Next, each side will evaluate the evidence. They will do this by filing interrogatories, which is a list of questions the opposition must answer honestly. The discovery process is also used to ask the opposition to turn over documents and other evidence that has a bearing on the case.

4. Settling or Going to Trial

If it seems as though the plaintiff has a strong case and a win is very likely, the defense will usually settle. They’ll usually offer less than they would have to pay at trial, but the amount will still be attractive enough to encourage the plaintiff to accept the offer. If the defense doesn’t make a settlement offer, or if the offer is declined by the plaintiff, the case will go to court.

If you have suffered serious injuries as the result of an accident, consulting a personal injury attorney should be among your first actions. The legal team at Reed & Terry, L.L.P. in Sugar Land, TX, is here to help. Backed by 50 years of practice, they can help you seek damages you may have suffered from auto collisions, defective products, or faulty medical devices. To schedule your free case evaluation, call them at (281) 491-5000. Visit them online to view testimonials from their former clients.