In 2022, a staggering 63 million people – about 1 in 5 – sought medical attention for a nonfatal preventable injury. Whether you were hurt in an automobile accident, at work, or by medical malpractice, suffering a wrongful injury can be frightening and demoralizing. Managing emotional distress, losing independence, requesting time off work, and other recovery-related difficulties may seem daunting. Working with a reputable legal firm can make the difference between walking away empty-handed and getting the money you deserve. At the Cole Law Firm, we want to ease your mind and ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
Knowing your rights and the correct steps to take following a wrongful injury is crucial to achieving financial compensation for your injury. Make certain you understand the next steps if you or someone you love has suffered a wrongful injury.
Steps to Take Immediately Following a Personal Injury:
After suffering a wrongful injury, you should immediately take the necessary steps. These steps include seeking medical attention, assessing the incident, reporting it, initiating documentation, obtaining legal counsel, undergoing rehabilitation, and seeking compensation.
1. (MEDICAL) Get Medical Attention
You must seek medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. In some cases, your injuries may be more severe than previously anticipated. You should consult a physician who makes you feel safe and comfortable. Seek medical attention immediately to receive a diagnosis, prevent future complications, initiate the recovery process, and alleviate your anxiety about the steps ahead.
2. (EVALUATE) Evaluate the Incident
At the scene, try to grab any form of evidence you can. Images, videos, eyewitness contact details, and other media may be included. Follow up as soon as you can if you are unable to obtain evidence immediately after the incident. Following the event, obtaining important information will help you strengthen your case and get the settlement you are due. While gathering evidence is crucial, your health comes first. Before proceeding to the next stage of the process, seek medical attention.
3. (REPORT) Report the Incident
If your injury was a work -related injury, you must inform your employer as soon as possible. It is your responsibility to notify your employer right away after suffering a work-related injury. Workers in Texas have 30 days from the time the incident occurred to report it to their employer. Failing to report the injury to your employer may result in losing financial compensation for the injury. You must notify your employer about the incident, whether it was a small or large incident.
4. (INITIATE) Initiate Documentation
Following a workplace injury, you must fill out the required paperwork. This paperwork pertains to the injury and includes incident and injury reports. Make sure to complete an OSHA workplace injury report. Make sure you sign the form; it is crucial to receiving financial compensation. Always keep a copy of the injury report for your records. Your supervisor must also fill out the required section on the form. Follow up and ensure your supervisor fills out their portion of the document.
5. (OBTAIN) Obtain Legal Counsel
It is critical to understand your legal rights in the event of a personal injury. Without the proper legal counsel, navigating the aftermath of a wrongful injury can be challenging and overwhelming. Hiring a knowledgeable and trustworthy personal injury lawyer can ease your mind, safeguard your legal rights, and get you the money you are due. Obtain legal assistance as soon as possible to help alleviate the stress surrounding the situation.
6. (UNDERGO) Undergo Rehabilitation
Your recovery is the top priority after a wrongful injury. To ensure recovery, follow all of your doctor’s protocols, rehab assignments, and any other steps in your recovery plan. Attend all follow-up appointments and make your health a priority. Your physician may instruct you to attend therapy, see specialists, undergo medical testing, etc. Following your physician’s advice indicates to insurance companies that you value your health and have taken steps to mitigate your injuries.
7. (SEEK) Seek Compensation
Seeking financial compensation is vital for anyone who has suffered physical harm due to negligence or intentional actions. Compensation sought typically covers medical expenses, future care, lost wages, pain, and punitive damages. Speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help ensure just compensation to lessen the burdens brought on by the injury and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Knowledge is Power
The passionate and proficient attorneys at The Cole Law Firm are happy to help you learn about your rights and the next steps following a wrongful injury. Contact our office to set up a consultation today.