When someone is injured in an accident caused by another individual’s carelessness or negligence, they have a legal right to financial compensation for the harm they suffered. This is typically accomplished by filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company and, when necessary, filing a lawsuit to seek compensation.
Personal injury cases are more complicated than many people realize. For someone who has never done it before, the personal injury claims process can be lengthy, complicated, and challenging. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain the process, help strengthen your personal injury claim, and work to maximize your financial recovery.
Whether you were injured in an automobile accident, a truck accident, a motorcycle accident, a slip and fall accident, or suffered a dog bite, following these steps can strengthen your personal injury claim and increase the likelihood of a successful result.
When an accident causes injuries, you should seek appropriate medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, you should still have a medical provider evaluate you. A thorough medical examination can reveal injuries that might not be immediately visible, such as a concussion, stress fractures, damage to internal organs, or internal bleeding. A complete medical evaluation can also become important evidence in your personal injury claim, as your medical records will indicate any injuries you experienced and the treatment you required because of the accident.
Documenting the incident is essential to strengthen your personal injury claim. Make notes about the details of the accident as soon as you can, including the date, time, location, weather, and other relevant information. If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information. You should also take photographs of the scene of the accident, any visible injuries you suffered, and any property damage.
In addition to documenting the incident, you should preserve any physical evidence, such as damaged clothing, broken equipment, or other items involved in the incident. Do not repair or discard these items, as they could be used as evidence in your case.
Report the accident to the proper authorities. If you were involved in a car accident, contact the local police and file a police report. If you were injured at work or on a business property, report the incident to your employer or the property manager. In some cases, filing a report is a legal requirement, and it will help establish a record of what happened and who was at fault.
Keep detailed records of all expenses incurred due to your injuries, as well as any time off of work, vacation days, or sick time you used, including for visits to the doctor or other medical care and treatment. Your attorney can use these records to strengthen your personal injury claim by calculating the compensation you are owed for the time you missed from work because of the accident.
You may be contacted by insurance representatives who want to ask questions about the accident and will try to settle your claim as quickly and inexpensively as possible. Generally, you are not required to speak to an insurance adjuster. And remember — the insurance adjuster will use anything you say to try to reduce the value of your claim. Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, consult an attorney first. An attorney is ethically obligated to protect your interests and will work to protect your rights and maximize your financial recovery.
Every state has a statute of limitations that sets the deadline for filing a personal injury case in court. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date the injury occurred. If you do not file a lawsuit within this time, your case will likely be dismissed as being untimely filed, and you will lose your right to pursue compensation. An experienced personal attorney can advise you on the applicable statute of limitations and protect your rights by filing your claim within the correct timeframe.
Following your doctor’s advice will not only help you recover, it will also strengthen your personal injury claim. A record of consistent medical treatment shows you are taking your injuries seriously and are committed to your recovery. Gaps in medical treatment or failing to follow medical advice can be used against you. If you are inconsistent with your medical care, the insurance adjuster may use a gap in treatment to claim you were healed or that your injuries were not as severe as you claim.
Most people want to move forward from the stress and uncertainty of a personal injury as quickly as possible. But settling your case too quickly could be a costly mistake. The insurance company’s first settlement offer is often lower than what you are truly owed. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your claim and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
The most important thing you can do to strengthen your personal injury claim is to work with an experienced personal injury attorney. Your personal injury attorney can help you understand the claims process, gather the evidence necessary to prove your claim, provide valuable legal advice and guidance, negotiate with the insurance company, protect your rights, and, when necessary, file your claim in court.
John C. Iannelli is an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer who has earned a reputation for achieving exceptional results for his clients. He can evaluate your claim, advise you on your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Iannelli Law today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation with an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney.
© 2025 Law Offices of John Iannelli
| View Our Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
Law Firm Website Design by The Modern Firm
Share