Accidents happen every day. In cars, on bikes, while walking down the street, or simply while doing your job–accidents happen. When accidents cause serious injury or disability, it is time to reach out to a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you determine how to proceed to get the benefits you deserve. Here are five things everyone should know about accidents and injuries.
Report Your Accident
Even if the accident seems minor, call the police and make sure to get a police report. Right after a car accident, it’s common to feel shaken up, nervous and confused. It may be hard for you to judge the severity of the accident or to foresee what kind of damage it has caused. It is better to have a police report in case you need it in the future.
Do Not Admit Fault
Many people have a knee-jerk reaction to apologize after an accident but do not apologize or admit fault in any way. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you or your insurance company later on. Focus on calling the police and your insurance company.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help With Work Accidents and Injuries
Accidents and injuries at the workplace are more common than many people realize. Certain professions are hazardous by the nature of the job. First-responders such as police and firefighters face risks daily. Construction workers are at risk of falling objects, falls, or injuries from large equipment. Foodservice workers are at risk of burns from hot food, boiling water, or cooking oil. But even workers in a sedate office environment are at risk of injuries on the job. Slips and falls caused by wet spots, uneven carpeting, or in poorly maintained stairwells can cause severe injury. If hurt on the job, immediately document the cause of the accident by taking pictures and talking to witnesses. Maintain strict medical records of your treatment and lost wages. Worker’s compensation will generally cover medical bills and lost wages.
Report Injuries at Other People’s Homes
Slips and falls can cause serious injury in just a moment’s time. Falls can cause fractures, whiplash, broken hips, and spinal injury. Falls occurring at work are often covered by worker’s compensation. If your fall was not at work but was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to a settlement. Document the scene of the accident by taking pictures, notes, and talking to anyone who witnessed the fall. Maintain records of your medical treatment.
When to Use Worker’s Compensation or a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you are an employee and are injured on the job, most of the time you will be covered by worker’s compensation laws. Worker’s compensation typically covers medical bills and lost wages but not damages due to pain and suffering. If you were injured in a car accident or another type of accident on someone else’s property, you may be eligible for a settlement from the other person’s insurance company. A personal injury lawyer can help you determine what type of legal action you should pursue.
If you are dealing with an injury from an accident, you may need a personal injury lawyer. If you are looking for a “personal injury lawyer near me,” Locate Legal Help can assist you to find a lawyer and get the settlement you deserve.