Navigating the Legal Maze of a Personal Injury Lawsuit

You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence. The legal system, however, may be intimidating and confusing to navigate. That’s where our personal injury attorneys at Mickey Keenan P.A. come in.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of a personal injury case from start to finish, covering key stages like gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and going to court, if necessary.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of the legal process so that you can make informed decisions about your case.

Let’s get started.

Navigating a Personal Injury Lawsuit

While every case is unique, almost every personal injury claim will progress through similar steps. Understanding these steps can help injured parties prepare themselves for what to expect throughout the claims process.

What to expect:

#1. Consultation

Your lawyer will meet with you during the initial meeting to go through the details of your claim and to answer any questions you may have. This is a vital phase in the process because it sets the tone for how your case will be handled moving forward.

We will ask:

• How were you injured?
• Who was involved in the accident?
• Who could be held accountable for the incident?
• What injuries did you sustain?
• What treatment & future treatment will you need for the injuries?

This information helps us assess the strength of your case and determine what type of compensation you may be entitled to receive.

#2. Investigation

The next step is for your personal injury attorney to launch an immediate and thorough inquiry into the details of your case.

This means gathering evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Insurance claim records

The investigation may also involve consulting with experts in various fields such as accident reconstructionists or medical professionals who can provide insight into the extent of your injuries.

The goal is to establish liability for your injuries and determine the full extent of damages you have suffered so that you can receive fair compensation.

#3. Treatment

Sustaining an accident injury is a traumatic experience that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and unsure about what to do next. While your attorney works diligently on your behalf, you need to focus on recovering from your injuries.

It is crucial to follow through with your prescribed medical treatment after an accident. Not only does following your doctor’s orders ensure that you receive the best possible care, but it also helps to establish a solid record of your injuries and treatments.

This information can be critical when seeking restitution or damages resulting from the accident.

#4. Demand Packet

The demand packet includes several key components designed to provide an accurate picture of the situation. It will often begin with a summary of the accident itself, including when and where it occurred and who was involved. It ends with a demand for compensation.

It may include the following:

• Incident or police report
• Pictures of your injuries or property damage
• Medical records and bills
• Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses
• Documentation of any lost wages

Once the demand packet has been completed by your lawyer, it is then sent to the insurance carrier for the party at fault for your injuries. The insurance carrier will review the demand and evaluate it before making its decision.

#5. Negotiation

Once the demand packet has been submitted to the insurance carrier, lawyers wait for a response from the carrier which is usually an offer of settlement. The offer may include payment for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Many insurance companies will offer a low settlement amount as their first offer. Our team of lawyers can negotiate a fair settlement amount that reflects the extent of your injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress experienced after an accident.

Negotiations may require multiple rounds until both parties agree on a final settlement amount that satisfies all parties involved.

You will ultimately have to decide whether to take them up on their offer, issue a counter-demand, or file a lawsuit.

#6. Settlement

Once an agreement has been reached, your attorney will prepare a Settlement Agreement that outlines the terms of the settlement in detail.

The Settlement Agreement will typically include information about the amount of compensation being paid, how and when payments will be made, and any other relevant details related to the settlement.

#7. Possible Litigation

If negotiations with the at-fault party in a personal injury case reach an impasse, the next logical step is to file litigation. This process can be daunting, but with the help of our experienced lawyers at Mickey Keenan P.A., you can navigate the legal system and fight for your rights effectively.

While it may seem like an extreme measure, litigation can often be necessary when negotiations aren’t fruitful. In many cases, it’s only through litigation that injured parties can receive fair compensation for their losses and damages.

Read More > Will The New Personal Injury Laws Impact Your Case?

Don’t Settle For Less

At Mickey Keenan P.A., we understand the financial, physical, and emotional burden that comes with being a victim of personal injury. Our team of skilled lawyers is committed to fighting for you and ensuring you get the compensation you are due. We will work tirelessly to compile evidence, work with insurance providers, and, if required, represent you in court.

Your fight is our fight and we will work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served. Contact us today at 813-871-1300 for a free consultation and let us help you get back on your feet again.