Whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, or an injury at work, dealing with serious injuries in the aftermath can be overwhelming for anyone. While it’s important to protect your legal rights, your recovery should be your top priority. At Gariepy Law Offices, as your car accident lawyer in Twin Falls, we are here to step up and provide you with the comprehensive legal advice you need during your time of crisis. We know how to navigate the legal system and will help you every step of the way.
Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health comes first. If you’re seriously injured, call 911 or have someone call for you. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussion, traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding, might not be immediately apparent. Plus, having a medical record of your injuries right after the accident is important for any future legal claims.
Document Everything
Once you’re safe and have received medical attention, start gathering evidence. This step is vital for protecting your legal rights. If it’s possible, take photos of your injuries and the accident scene and get the contact information from any witnesses. While it’s fresh in your mind, write down or record exactly what happened at the time of the accident. Keep all your medical records and bills for future reimbursement purposes. Also preserve any and all potential evidence like any damaged personal items or clothing.
Report the Incident
Depending on where your injury occurred, you’ll need to report it to the appropriate authorities. Where and to whom you’ll report will depend on the type of accident you’ve suffered. If you have a car accident, call the police without delay and file a report. If you suffer an accident or injury at your workplace, inform your supervisor and file an incident report. Should you have a slip and fall or other type of accident on someone else’s property, notify the property owner or manager as soon as possible. Getting an official record of what happened is crucial for any future legal action.
Be Careful What You Say
After an accident, it’s natural to want to talk about what happened. But be cautious about what you say and to whom. Shock at the scene can impact people in different ways. Try to avoid admitting any fault or apologizing, even if you think you might be partially responsible. These statements could be used against you later. Be especially careful when talking to insurance companies. They may try to get you to say things that could hurt your claim.
Be Mindful of Social Media
In today’s digital age, it’s second nature to share our lives on social media. But after an injury, it’s best to stay quiet online. Insurance companies and lawyers often look at your social media posts to try to use posts about activities or your mindset as a way to discredit your claims. A seemingly innocent post about a fun day out could be used to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim or that your mental or emotional suffering is not serious.
Don’t Rush to Accept a Settlement
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly, sometimes before you even know the full extent of your injuries. Their initial offers are usually low. Don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer you receive. It’s good practice to tell them you need time to think about it or to consult with a lawyer.
Know the Statute of Limitations
Every state has laws that limit how long you have to file a lawsuit after an injury. This is called the statute of limitations. Here in Idaho, the statute of limitations is two years for personal injuries, but this rule is subject to some exceptions. But don’t wait until the last minute. Building a strong case takes time, so it’s best to start the process as soon as possible.
Call Us. We’re Here to Help You
Personal injury law can be complicated. While it’s important to protect your legal rights, don’t forget that your health should be your top priority. Follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all your medical appointments, and give yourself time to heal. Stress can slow recovery, so stay positive and focus on improving. Let us at Gariepy Law Offices, your car accident lawyer in Twin Falls, use our skills and expertise to secure the best possible outcome so you can recover fully.
Schedule a Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Twin Falls
We have three convenient office locations to best serve you. Call us 24/7 at (208) 726-4824 or write to us using the contact form on this page. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation!