Serious and potentially disabling injuries can occur in a variety of situations. While referred to as ‘accidents’, injuries you suffer are often the result of another person’s reckless or negligent conduct. In these situations, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. As even the most seemingly minor incidents can end up resulting in major damages and costs, it is important to take the steps necessary to protect yourself when an accident does occur.
Common Types of ‘Accidental’ Injuries
According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 24 million people each year seek care in hospital emergency rooms throughout the United States as a result of accidental injuries. Among the most common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Pedestrian and bicycle injuries
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Being struck by or against objects
- Defective and dangerous products
All of the above may be the result of reckless actions on the part of another. Driving too fast or disregarding traffic signals, failing to alert customers or visitors to a property of potential dangers, and failing to correct dangerous conditions or defects are all examples of negligence. In these situations, you may be entitled to compensation, either through an insurance claim or by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim
Even a minor ‘accident’ can result in major expenses. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that medical treatment costs alone for otherwise minor injuries can run as high as $10,000, while more extensive injuries can end up costing upwards of $1 million or more. To protect yourself and help ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to in a claim, it is important to do the following:
- Notify law enforcement, the property manager, or the product manufacturer as soon as possible, so that a personal injury report can be filed.
- Make note of any witnesses who may have seen the incident or how it occurred.
- Get medical treatment immediately for your injuries, regardless of their severity.
- Follow all of your doctor’s instructions on work or activity restrictions.
- Keep records regarding your medical care, and any treatments or medications prescribed.
- Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
- Refrain from discussing the incident or your injuries or posting about it on social media.
You may be approached by an insurance company for the at-fault party looking to settle any potential claims you may have. It is important to realize that these companies have a financial motive for undervaluing or even denying claims and to speak with an experienced attorney before accepting a settlement or signing any documents.
Reach Out to Us for Help
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of another party’s negligent or reckless actions, contact a Virginia personal injury attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp. It is critical to remember that Virginia has placed a statute of limitations on how long victims have to file a claim for damages against those responsible for their injuries, so do not delay. Failure to file before that legal deadline could mean you lose any chance of ever filing your claim or getting financial justice against the person responsible for you or your loved one’s injuries.
Contact our office today to set up a free and confidential case evaluation with one of our dedicated Virginia accident attorneys. You may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, emotional anguish, permanent disability, scarring, and disfigurement. Call our office to find out how we can help.
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