Through Ontario’s personal injury claim process, you can hold anyone who harmed you accountable for their negligent actions. However, this process can be complicated, especially if it is your first time navigating through it. Thus, you might make mistakes that can ruin your claim. Thankfully, you can avoid this when you work with a personal injury attorney in Ontario who has been handling cases like yours for years. Every personal injury claim is different.
After an accident, you may feel overwhelmed, numb, or feeling an adrenaline rush. You might wonder what to do and have questions in mind. If are filing a personal injury lawsuit, here are the steps you should take:
See a Doctor
Even if you feel okay after an accident, you still have to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash and internal bleeding, may not present immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening. Seeking medical attention is important for your safety and potential legal claim. A visit to a doctor ensures your injury is properly documented. Proper documentation is vital to ensuring the strength of your claim.
Report the Accident to the Authorities
Whether the accident took place on the road, in the workplace, or on someone else’s property, you must report it to an authority and keep a record. You may need to notify the store owner, police, or your supervisor. An official accident report will be made, preserving information that might disappear.
Collect Evidence
Evidence such as photos or videos of the accident scene can prove that it truly happened. Also, you must take photos of any obvious injuries. If you were in a car accident, ensure you get photos of the traffic lights, vehicle damage, skid marks, and cracked pavement, as they can prove fault. Also, get the contact information of those who witnessed the accident, so your attorney can easily get back to them later.
Call a Lawyer
You must look for a lawyer who is experienced in the kind of accident you were in. The right attorney can protect your rights, handle communications with the insurance company, investigate the accident, negotiate a reasonable settlement with the insurer, or represent you in court. Their representation can provide you with peace of mind as you focus on healing and recovering from the effects of the injury on your life. Make sure to ask your attorney any questions you may have regarding your claim, so you don’t make decisions that can negatively affect your case.
