Suppose you were injured in an accident, such as a car accident, a pedestrian accident, or because of a dog bite or medical malpractice. Now, you’ve decided to hire a personal injury attorney to help you obtain maximum compensation. Is there anything you can do to help your lawyer? To help expedite the process? Yes, absolutely. There’s a lot that you can do to help streamline the claims process from your end. Here are some things you can do to help your attorney:
1. Keep your contact information updated.
If you decide to move, change jobs, get a new phone number, or change other contact information, please notify your attorney right away. For example, if you decide to get a new cellphone number because you’ve changed carriers, don’t forget to advise your lawyer of this change immediately. If you forget to communicate any change in contact information, it can cause unnecessarily delays in your personal injury claim.
2. If you travel out-of-town, notify your attorney.
Will you be travelling to the West Coast for a week for work? Will you be vacationing in the Bahamas for two weeks? Will you be checking out colleges with your son or daughter who is in their junior year? If you’re going to be out-of-town for more than a three-day weekend, or if you’ll be camping in the woods where you’ll have no cell service, let your attorney know. It’s important that he or she knows how to reach you when you’re travelling.
3. Update your attorney on your medical treatment.
If you are being treated by a chiropractor or medical doctor, let your attorney know if you cannot keep your appointments for some reason. If your doctor said that your treatment is complete but you’re experiencing a lot of pain, contact your lawyer right away. If you don’t keep your attorney informed about your treatment progress, the insurance company will be on high-alert and can use gaps in treatment against you. It helps your attorney significantly if you keep them updated throughout the treatment process.
5. Keep detailed records of all expenses.
We’re referring to out-of-pocket expenses and any lost income. For example, if you have to drive three hours to see a specialist, keep track of your mileage and save the hotel receipts. If you had to see a doctor during work hours, let him or her know that you missed work so the doctor can make a note on your medical records.
If you’ve had co-pays for any prescriptions or medical treatment, keep all the receipts and turn them over to your attorney. If you missed work, keep detailed notes of the dates that you missed. If you had to hire someone to help take care of you or fill your position at work, document those expenditures as well.
6. Be open about prior injuries.
If you have been injured in an accident before, or if you have pre-existing injuries, be sure to disclose them so your attorney is not caught off-guard. If you fail to tell your lawyer about any past claims or injuries, it can put him or her at a disadvantage if the insurance company finds out and tries to devalue your case.
We hope this information helps you. If you’re looking for a Columbia, SC personal injury attorney, don't hesitate to contact our office today!