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If you’ve been hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s essential to know what you need to do for maximum compensation. Here are the most critical steps you need to take after your accident occurs.

Report Your Accident Right Away

As soon as you can, file an accident report with all authorities that need to be notified. If you’re in a vehicular accident, file a police report while on the scene. Law enforcement will then conduct their own inquiry by taking eye-witness statements and determining who is at-fault for the accident. A policeman’s report will hold the most significant influence in court.

Get Witnesses

Whether your accident occurred on the road or in the workplace, witnesses will be vital in supporting your claim. If able, ask for their contact information, so you’ll be able to get a hold of them later if needed. If you have a case that goes to trial, witnesses might be necessary for a judge to determine at-fault parties.

Keep in mind. If you plan on contacting witnesses, don’t depend on the police report to provide needed information. Police only need to record names and witness statements. They will not obtain information that makes it possible for you to contact a person later. Ask the person directly to provide a telephone number and email for ease of follow-up questions or scheduling them to testify.

Get Medical Help Immediately

Do not wait to get your injuries treated. If you wait, insurance companies might claim that your injuries were not a result of the accident. Seek medical treatment as soon as possible to avoid claims that you are claiming fake injuries.

Detail Your Injuries

When you go for medical attention, every detail you enter for the doctor’s report will be included in your injury report for insurance purposes. It’s crucial to not down-play the extent of your injuries. Don’t exaggerate, but do explain in detail everything related to your injury. Big and little details both should be included from neck and shoulder pain to your broken ankle to a migraine that you got immediately following the accident. Any ache or discomfort you feel after an accident should be noted and discussed with your healthcare provider.

Know Your Rights

If your injuries occur on the job and you file for workers’ compensation, it’s vital to know what benefits you are entitled to as a result. Never let an employer talk you out of filing a report, asking your fellow employees to testify, or settle outside of the system. As an employee, you are entitled to:

• Disability Benefits (Temporary): Whether you’re out of work for two days or two months, workers’ compensation will provide payment while you can’t work.
• Disability Benefits (Permanent): If you have a permanent physical disability due to an accident at work, you are entitled to receive compensation.
• Medical Attention: Medical care for injuries caused at your workplace is covered.
• Rehabilitation: Workers’ comp will help you get back into the workforce if needed after your accident.

Mileage: You can be compensated for miles driven to and from doctors’ offices and other travel due to injuries sustained on the job.

Costa Ivone, LLC | 311 N Aberdeen St #100B, Chicago, IL 60607 | (708) 400-0000