Updated: Nov 23, 2024

Experiencing a personal injury can be overwhelming, especially when medical bills and lost wages add stress to your recovery. Find out what steps to take immediately after an injury and how to choose a qualified personal injury lawyer to ensure you get fair compensation.

What to Do After a Personal Injury

Taking the right steps immediately following an injury can help protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

   Your health and safety should be the priority. Whether you feel injured or not, see a doctor right away. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Getting checked by a healthcare professional creates a medical record that will be essential if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

2. Report the Incident

   Make sure to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. For car accidents, contact the police and file an accident report. For a workplace injury, report it to your employer and ensure they document the accident. If the injury occurred on someone else’s property, notify the property owner or manager. This documentation is critical for your case.

3. Collect Evidence at the Scene

   If you’re able, gather evidence while still at the scene of the incident. Take photos or videos of:

   • Any visible injuries
   • The scene of the accident, including hazardous conditions
   • Property damage (such as damage to a vehicle in a car accident)
   • Any signs or factors that contributed to the incident (such as slippery floors or broken equipment)

   Also, collect the contact information of any witnesses and write down their statements if possible. This evidence can be crucial when proving fault or liability.

4. Keep Detailed Records

   Document everything related to your injury, including:

   • Medical appointments and treatments
   • Medications prescribed
   • Days missed from work and any lost income
   • Out-of-pocket expenses, such as transportation to doctor appointments or medical supplies

   Detailed records can help you calculate the compensation you’re owed and provide essential documentation for your case.

5. Avoid Discussing Your Case

   Avoid discussing your case, especially on social media, as anything you post could be used against you. Limit your conversation to your lawyer and trusted close family members. Insurance companies may use statements you make on social media to argue that your injury is not as severe as claimed.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

   After you’ve received medical attention and documented the incident, contact a personal injury lawyer. A qualified lawyer can review your case, help determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

How to Find a Qualified Personal Injury Lawyer

Selecting the right personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s a guide to help you find a lawyer who can effectively represent you:

1. Ask for Recommendations

   Personal recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers who have been through a similar situation can be valuable. If someone you trust had a positive experience with a personal injury lawyer, consider consulting with that lawyer. Word-of-mouth recommendations are often based on real results and can give you insights into the lawyer’s approach and effectiveness.

2. Research Lawyers Online

   If recommendations aren’t available, online research can be a great starting point. Look for lawyers specializing in personal injury law through reputable websites, such as:

   • Avvo: This site offers attorney ratings, client reviews, and details about an attorney’s experience and practice areas.
   • Martindale-Hubbell: Lawyers are peer-reviewed and rated, so you can see how other professionals rank them.
   • State Bar Associations: Most state bar associations have directories where you can find personal injury attorneys licensed in your state.

3. Look for Relevant Experience and Specialization

   Personal injury law covers a broad range of cases, including car accidents, slip-and-fall accidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. Look for a lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours. For example:

   • If you were injured in a car accident, choose a lawyer who has successfully represented other clients in car accident cases.
   • For workplace injuries, find someone with experience in workers’ compensation claims or workplace injury lawsuits.

4. Check Their Track Record and Case Results

   A successful personal injury lawyer will have a strong track record of obtaining favorable settlements and verdicts for clients. Most lawyers list case outcomes on their websites or can share this information during your consultation. Look for:

   • Settlements won in similar cases
   • Court verdicts and judgments in favor of their clients
   • Positive testimonials and client reviews

   For example, if a lawyer frequently handles slip-and-fall cases and consistently wins compensation for clients, it indicates strong experience and knowledge in that area of law.

5. Schedule Consultations with Multiple Lawyers

   Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations. Use this opportunity to meet with at least two or three lawyers before deciding. Consultations allow you to:

   • Ask about their experience with cases like yours
   • Discuss their strategy for handling your case
   • Get a realistic assessment of your case’s strengths and challenges
   • Understand their fee structure (most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case)

   During these consultations, pay attention to how well the lawyer listens to your concerns and whether they seem genuinely interested in your case.

6. Evaluate Communication and Compatibility

   A good personal injury lawyer will keep you informed throughout the process, answer questions promptly, and be transparent about the progress of your case. Take note of their communication style and responsiveness during your initial meetings. Ask them:

   • How often will you update me on my case?
   • What’s the best way to reach you (phone, email, etc.)?
   • Who else will be working on my case, and what are their roles?

   A lawyer who makes you feel comfortable and respected is more likely to be a good fit, as you’ll be working closely with them over what can sometimes be an extended period.

7. Understand the Fee Structure

   Personal injury lawyers commonly work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they receive a percentage of the compensation you win rather than charging hourly fees. If your case is unsuccessful, you typically won’t owe any attorney fees. However, ask for details on:

   • The contingency fee percentage, which usually ranges between 25% and 40%
   • Any upfront or hidden costs, such as filing fees or expert witness fees
   • Whether you’re responsible for any costs if the case doesn’t result in a settlement

   A good lawyer should be upfront about fees, provide a clear written agreement, and answer any questions you have about costs.

Red Flags to Watch Out For When Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

Here are some warning signs that a lawyer may not be the best choice:

• Promises of Quick, Large Settlements: No lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome or quick settlement.
• Lack of Experience in Personal Injury: Some general practice lawyers may accept personal injury cases without enough expertise. Make sure your lawyer specializes in personal injury law.
• Poor Communication: If they don’t respond to inquiries or seem dismissive of your questions, consider other options.
• High-Pressure Tactics: A good lawyer should respect your decision-making process and not rush you to sign a contract.

Real-World Example: Choosing the Right Lawyer After a Car Accident

Imagine Sarah, a 45-year-old woman from California, was injured in a car accident caused by another driver. Here’s how she navigated finding the right personal injury lawyer:

1. Seek Recommendations: Sarah’s cousin recommended a personal injury attorney who had successfully handled a similar case for them.
2. Online Research: She researched the attorney on Avvo and found high ratings, positive client reviews, and a strong record in car accident cases.
3. Schedule Consultations: Sarah met with three lawyers, including her cousin’s recommendation. Each provided an overview of her case and explained their approach to negotiation and litigation.
4. Evaluate Compatibility: Sarah felt comfortable with her cousin’s recommended attorney, who patiently answered her questions and made her feel confident.
5. Review the Fee Structure: The attorney worked on a 30% contingency basis with no upfront costs, which worked for Sarah’s budget.

Sarah’s process resulted in hiring an experienced lawyer who specialized in car accidents and was dedicated to securing fair compensation.

Final Tips for Navigating a Personal Injury Claim

• Stay Patient: Personal injury cases can take time, especially if negotiations with insurance companies are complex. Trust the process and stay in touch with your attorney.
• Follow Medical Advice: Continue with prescribed medical treatments and keep records, as this shows you’re actively working toward recovery.
• Keep Communication Open: Regularly check in with your lawyer and provide any updates on your condition or expenses related to your injury.

Following these steps will help you find a qualified personal injury lawyer who can navigate the legal complexities of your case and work to secure the compensation you deserve.