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Internal Injury Lawyers
Frisco | Dallas | Sherman
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Personal Injury Attorneys
Common Types of Internal Injuries
After a car accident or any other type of accident, one of our first actions is usually to check ourselves for injuries. Do we see any blood? Do we see any clearly broken bones? Can we move? What hurts? Once we do this initial review, we may be able to calm ourselves down assuming we don’t see or feel anything serious. Unfortunately, many of the serious and even fatal injuries we see are not visible to us because they are internal. There is no bleeding. There are no obvious fractures. We may only be aware of them due to pain we feel, but even then, we most likely can’t identify exactly what it is we are feeling.
Some of the most common internal injuries we see dealing with car accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents are as follows:
Traumatic Brain Injury – Internal trauma to your head can occur in many forms. One form is caused when an artery in the brain is burst due to your brain impacting your skull, and it begins to bleed. This is called a brain hemorrhage, and they can be fatal if not treated quickly. See our traumatic brain injury page for more information on TBIs.
Organ Injury – Organs can be crushed or lacerated in a traumatic accident. A crush injury can destroy parts of an organ thereby preventing it from functioning properly. Lacerations can lead to internal bleeding, which if left uncontrolled, can destroy an organ as well.
Broken Ribs/Punctured Lung – While not necessarily dangerous on its own, a broken rib can cause secondary damage, such as puncturing a lung (pneumothorax). Basically, your rib fracture can tear the lung tissue which allows air into the space between your lung and chest wall. This pressure can push on the outside of your lung and make it collapse.
Abdominal Injury – In severe crashes where the lap belt compresses the abdominal area, we have seen aneurysms. These are usually fatal, and not very common. When the lap belt is worn across the hips, the pelvis usually absorbs the majority of the force. We see these more when an occupant submarines under their seatbelt (usually a back seat passenger), and the lap belt digs into their abdomen.
Steps to Take When Seriously Injured in an Accident
Experiencing a serious internal injury in an accident can be overwhelming. Knowing what actions to take immediately can significantly impact your recovery and any potential legal proceedings. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through such a challenging time:
1. Seek Medical Care Immediately
Your health is a priority. Even if you don’t feel any immediate pain, some internal injuries can manifest later. Visit a medical professional immediately to ensure all injuries are documented and treated.
2. Document the Incident
Collect as much evidence as you can:
- Take photos of your injuries and the scene.
- Gather contact information from witnesses.
This documentation can be crucial for any future legal claims or insurance reports.
3. Report the Accident
File a report with the appropriate authorities:
- Contact the police in the event of a car accident.
- Notify management if you were injured on someone else’s property.
Having an official record can support your claims later.
4. Preserve All Records
Keep detailed records of:
- Medical bills and reports.
- Police reports and witness statements.
- Any communication with insurance companies.
These documents will be essential for building your case.
5. Exercise Caution with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may try to persuade you for quick settlements. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting any offers without consulting a legal expert.
6. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
A legal professional can provide essential advice and representation. They will help protect your rights and navigate the complexities of your case.
7. Adhere to Medical Advice
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan meticulously. This not only aids your recovery from internal injuries but also strengthens your legal claim.
8. Limit Social Media Activity
Be mindful of your social media posts. Anything you share publicly can potentially be used against you in legal proceedings.
9. Maintain a Pain Journal
Document your daily experiences, detailing how the internal injury impacts your life. This can provide compelling evidence for your claim.
10. Be Persistent and Patient
Legal cases often take time. Stay engaged and communicate openly with your lawyer to ensure your case progresses smoothly.
Every injury and accident scenario is different. For specific guidance tailored to your circumstances, consider seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney. Having a dedicated personal injury lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve, ensuring you’re supported through every step of your recovery and legal journey.
Why Is It Important to Seek Immediate Medical Attention After an Accident?
When you’re involved in an accident and receive internal injuries, your health should be your top priority. Here are several reasons why seeking immediate medical attention is crucial:
Discover Hidden Injuries
Not all internal injuries are immediately noticeable. Conditions such as internal bleeding and concussions might not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical care promptly can help identify these hidden injuries early.
Prevent Further Complications
Delayed treatment can lead to more severe health issues. For instance, what might initially seem like a minor injury could worsen over time without proper medical intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications from internal injuries.
Watch this interview with a former Trauma Nurse, and Legal Nursing Expert on spotting the signs of internal injuries, and the treatment process.
Document Your Condition
Having medical records from immediately after the accident provides vital documentation. This can be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or seek legal recourse. Medical records help establish a clear link between the accident and your internal injuries.
Start the Healing Process
Early treatment means you can begin your recovery journey sooner. Professionals can prescribe the correct therapies and medications to manage pain and promote healing, putting you on the path to recovery faster.
Mental Health Considerations
Accidents can be traumatic and impact your mental health. Prompt medical attention should include evaluations for shock, anxiety, or other psychological effects, ensuring comprehensive care for both body and mind.
Avoid Legal Pitfalls
Timely medical attention can protect you from legal complications. Insurance companies might argue that later medical issues and internal injuries are unrelated to the accident if there’s a significant delay in seeking treatment.
Peace of Mind
Finally, knowing that a medical professional has examined you can provide peace of mind. It confirms that you’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure your well-being.
In summary, immediate medical attention after an accident safeguards your health, supports potential legal claims, and contributes to a quicker, more effective recovery process. Don’t underestimate the importance of seeing a healthcare provider right away if you may be suffering from internal injuries due to an accident.
Why Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident?
After an accident, you might feel overwhelmed with medical bills, insurance claims, and potential legal actions. Here’s why reaching out to a personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference:
1. Protection of Your Rights
A personal injury lawyer ensures your rights are protected. They understand the laws surrounding personal injury cases and can defend you against insurance companies that might try to minimize your compensation.
2. Expert Navigation of Legal Processes
The legal system is complex. A seasoned attorney can help you navigate the intricate procedures and paperwork involved in filing a claim. They know the deadlines, required documentation, and legal language, which can be daunting for anyone unfamiliar with the process.
3. Thorough Investigations
Lawyers have access to resources that can help thoroughly investigate your case. They can gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
4. Maximizing Compensation
A personal injury lawyer fights to get you the compensation you deserve. They can calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, ensuring you have the best chance of receiving the full value of your claim.
Key Takeaways
- Rights Protection: Defend against lowball insurance offers.
- Legal Expertise: Effective navigation of complex legal landscape.
- Investigation Resources: Access to essential evidence and experts.
- Better Compensation: Accurate calculation and strong negotiation to obtain full value for your claim.
Contacting a personal injury lawyer post-accident isn’t just beneficial—it’s crucial for ensuring your best possible outcome.
How Solid Evidence Strengthens Your Personal Injury Case
Having robust evidence is critical in building a strong personal injury case. Here’s why:
- Credibility and Reliability: Strong evidence—like police reports, eyewitness accounts, and clear photo or video documentation—lends credibility to your claims. This concrete information supports your narrative, making it difficult for the opposing party to dispute your version of events.
- Persuasive Power in Court: Detailed medical records are another cornerstone of a compelling case. They illustrate the extent of your internal injuries, the treatment required, and the impact on your life. This form of documentation can be particularly persuasive in court, helping to sway the judge or jury in your favor.
- Boosts Negotiation Leverage: When negotiating settlements, having solid evidence gives you a significant advantage. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers are more likely to offer a favorable settlement if they see you have irrefutable evidence that supports your claims.
- Clarity and Objectivity: Solid evidence brings clarity and objectivity to your case. It reduces ambiguity and avoids the “he said, she said” nature of many disputes. Detailed documentation from multiple sources (e.g., police reports, videos, and medical records) presents a clear and cohesive account of what happened.
Overall, having substantial evidence fortifies your personal injury case by making your claims more credible, persuasive, and difficult to refute. This can significantly improve your chances of receiving the full value of your claim.
By incorporating these elements, you can ensure the robustness of your personal injury case and enhance the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Why You Should Keep All Records Related to Your Internal Injury and Accident
Maintaining detailed records of your injury and accident is crucial for multiple reasons:
- Medical Validation: Documenting your medical bills and treatment progress provides concrete proof of the extent of your internal injuries. This is essential for healthcare providers, legal teams, and insurance companies to understand the accident’s full impact on your health.
- Legal Protection: Police reports and accident records establish the facts of the incident and can be critical pieces of evidence if you need to pursue legal action. Accurate records help clarify what happened and who is responsible.
- Insurance Claims: When dealing with insurance companies, having a trail of all correspondence and documentation aids in proving the validity of your claims. This includes everything from initial reports to subsequent medical treatments and communications.
- Financial Reimbursement: Detailed financial records, including receipts and invoices, ensure you can track and justify all expenses related to your internal injuries. This helps secure compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other related expenses.
- Memory Preservation: Time can blur details. Keeping meticulous records ensures that you have accurate information to reference, safeguards your rights, and ensures that your recollection remains clear and indisputable.
If you have questions about the records related to your case, set up a free strategy session or email us your question.
By organizing and maintaining these documents, you bolster your position whether you negotiate with insurers, consult with attorneys, or simply keep track for personal reasons. Always err on the side of caution and keep all relevant records until your case is fully resolved.
Determining the Strength of Your Personal Injury Case
Assessing the strength of a personal injury case can be challenging. Here are key factors to consider that can help you evaluate your potential claim:
1. Liability for Your Injuries
Negligence: Establishing that someone else’s negligence caused your internal injury is crucial. Clear examples include a driver running a red light or a store failing to address a hazardous spill.
2. Severity of Injuries
Types of Injuries: Cases tend to be stronger when the injuries are severe, such as:
- Broken bones
- Damage to the spinal cord
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Injuries necessitating surgical intervention
3. Scope of Medical Treatment
Comprehensive Care: Extensive medical treatments, prolonged rehabilitation, or ongoing healthcare needs can significantly bolster your claim.
4. Impact on Daily Living
Disruption: Evaluate how significantly the injuries have affected your daily life, job, and personal relationships. The greater the impact, the stronger your case may be.
5. Evidence Quality
Gathering Proof: A case is substantiated by strong evidence, including:
- Police and accident reports
- Testimonies from eyewitnesses
- Clear photographic or video documentation
- Comprehensive medical records
6. Immediate Medical Response
Prompt Attention: Seeking medical care promptly after the incident can fortify your claim by maintaining a clear connection between the accident and your injuries.
7. Consistency in Testimony
Uniform Statements: Ensure that your descriptions of the event are consistent across all your statements and reports. Consistencies can bolster credibility.
8. Absence of Pre-existing Conditions
New Injuries: A case is often stronger if the injuries are new and not exacerbations of pre-existing conditions.
9. Insurance Coverage
Adequate Coverage: Verify that the at-fault party has sufficient insurance to cover your damages. This aspect is crucial for receiving adequate compensation.
10. Timely Legal Action
Statute of Limitations: Filing your claim within the legal timeframe (typically, two years from the incident date in Texas) is essential to preserving your right to pursue compensation for your internal injuries.
Every personal injury case has unique elements. Even if you are unsure about some of these factors, consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the specifics of your case, often free of charge, and help outline your legal options.
How a Free Strategy Session Can Clarify Your Legal Options
Understand Your Legal Rights
A free strategy session with a personal injury lawyer empowers you by providing a clear understanding of your legal rights. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident or a slip and fall, consulting a personal injury attorney in a free strategy session can help you comprehend the intricacies of your situation.
Assess the Strength of Your Case
Legal professionals can analyze the details of your case to determine its strength. This insight can help you decide whether to pursue legal action or explore other options.
Get Clear Answers to Your Questions
Often, accident victims are left with countless questions. A free strategy session offers the perfect opportunity to ask about your situation directly. From timelines and potential outcomes to the legal process itself, you’ll receive straightforward answers tailored to your unique circumstances.
No Financial Risk, Immediate Advice
Because the strategy session is free, there’s no financial risk involved. You gain immediate advice without worrying about upfront costs or hourly fees. This ensures you can make informed decisions promptly and confidently.
Personalized Legal Strategy
During the strategy session, the lawyer will discuss potential strategies for your case. They can outline the steps they would take on your behalf, providing you with a clear roadmap of what to expect. This level of personalization is crucial for understanding how to proceed.
Confidential and Obligation-Free
Your discussion with the attorney is confidential. You’re not obligated to hire them after the consultation, allowing you to gather essential information without any pressure. This ensures you make the best possible decision for your situation.
Access to Resources and Expertise
Law firms typically have access to resources and expertise that the general public does not. Through a free strategy session, you gain insight into the firm’s capabilities and network, helping you understand how they can support your claim effectively.
By taking advantage of a free strategy session, you can confidently navigate the complexities of personal injury law and make informed choices about your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Snellings Law, we possess the resources and manpower needed to tackle even the most complex personal injury cases. Our team is well-equipped to offer robust legal representation and support throughout your legal journey.
Our dedicated team of trial attorneys aims to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether through a negotiated settlement or taking the matter to a jury trial. We tailor our approach to suit the specifics of your situation, always prioritizing your best interests.
We strive to help you receive full value for your claim, including compensatory damages for your actual losses, punitive damages to punish egregious behavior, and non-economic damages for pain and suffering.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or hourly fees. We only get paid if we win your case, ensuring our primary focus is on securing the compensation you deserve.
With decades of experience, our team has successfully represented clients in numerous challenging scenarios, from highway car crashes to intricate premises liability cases. Our extensive expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of personal injury law effectively.
Our firm specializes in a wide array of personal injury cases, covering motor vehicle accidents, defective products, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and premises liability cases. We also handle other complex personal injury situations, ensuring comprehensive legal support for all our clients.
Navigating a personal injury case requires more than just filing a claim and waiting. It’s a balancing act of patience and proactive engagement. Here’s how these two qualities can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case:
- Understanding Legal Timelines- Legal proceedings often involve meticulous documentation, negotiation, and sometimes court appearances. Being patient allows you to endure these necessary stages without becoming frustrated or making hasty decisions.
- Staying Informed and Engaged- While patience is crucial, it’s equally important to remain proactive. Regular communication with your lawyer ensures you’re up-to-date on any developments. This can help you make timely decisions and provide additional information when needed. It also shows you’re serious about your case.
- Gathering Evidence- A proactive approach includes collecting and preserving all relevant evidence. This could be medical records, photographs of injuries, or witness statements. The more comprehensive your evidence, the stronger your case will be when presented in negotiations or court.
- Following Medical Advice- One of the most critical aspects is adhering to medical treatments and appointments. This not only aids in your recovery but also provides documented proof of your injuries and ongoing suffering, which can be instrumental in securing a favorable settlement.
- Mitigating Damages- By taking steps to follow your physician’s orders and not exacerbating your injuries, you demonstrate responsibility. This can prevent the other party from claiming that you failed to mitigate damages, which could otherwise reduce the compensation you may receive.
In summary:
-Patience allows you to deal with the lengthy legal process without frustration.
-Proactivity ensures you’re collecting evidence, following medical advice, and staying engaged with your lawyer.
By blending patience with proactive steps, you can safeguard your interests and enhance the strength and credibility of your personal injury case.
Reporting an incident is crucial for a variety of reasons:
- Documentation and Evidence: Creating an official record can be instrumental in any potential legal proceedings. For example, police reports in car accidents provide a detailed account of the event that can support insurance claims.
- Accountability and Responsibility: Informing the appropriate authorities ensures that those responsible are held accountable. Whether it’s informing the police about a car accident or alerting management about a slip and fall injury, this step enforces responsibility.
- Prevention and Safety Measures: Reporting incidents can lead to identifying hazards and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences. Dangerous trucking drivers can be fined and have their licenses commercial licenses revoked if their safety record is poor enough.
- Insurance and Compensation: Proper reporting is often necessary to pursue insurance claims or compensation. Without an official report, it can be challenging to prove the incident occurred and obtain the necessary support.
- Compliance with Legal Requirements: Some jurisdictions require mandatory reporting of certain types of incidents. Failing to report can result in legal consequences, including fines or other penalties.
Summary
In essence, promptly reporting incidents protects your rights, ensures accountability, and contributes to overall safety and compliance. It’s a critical step for anyone involved in any form of accident or mishap.
Evaluating the strength of your personal injury claim involves scrutinizing various essential elements. Here are some key indicators to help you identify if your case might succeed:
- Identifiable Liability
Your claim gains strength if it’s clear that another party’s negligence caused your injury. Examples include a driver ignoring a red light or a store neglecting to clean up a spill.
- Severity of Injuries
The more severe your injuries, the stronger your case could be. Serious injuries that bolster claims often include:
-Broken bones
-Spinal cord damage
-Traumatic brain injuries
-Severe burns
-Injuries necessitating surgery
- Extent of Medical Treatment
Cases involving extensive medical intervention, ongoing treatment, or long-term rehabilitation are usually more compelling.
- Disruption to Daily Life
If your injuries have significantly impacted your daily activities, work, or personal relationships, this could add substantial weight to your claim.
- Robust Evidence
Strong cases are backed by concrete evidence. Examples of valuable evidence include:
-Police reports
-Eyewitness testimony
-Clear photo or video documentation
-Comprehensive medical records
- Prompt Medical Attention
Receiving immediate medical care after the incident helps establish a clear link between the accident and your internal injuries.
- Consistency in Statements
Maintaining uniformity in your account of the accident across all statements and reports can strengthen your case’s credibility.
- Absence of Pre-existing Conditions
If your internal injuries are new and unrelated to pre-existing conditions, it solidifies your claim.
- Adequate Insurance Coverage
The availability of sufficient insurance coverage from the at-fault party to compensate for your damages is crucial.
- Timely Legal Action
Ensure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas, which is typically two years from the date of injury.
Every personal injury case is unique. If you’re uncertain about any of these factors, seeking advice from a personal injury attorney could be invaluable. Legal professionals can provide personalized insights and help you understand your options without upfront costs.
After an accident, documentation is crucial for several reasons:
- Evidence Collection: Photos of your injuries and the accident scene serve as concrete evidence. Visual proof can be invaluable when proving the extent of damage and fault.
- Witness Testimony: Obtaining contact information from witnesses can provide you with firsthand accounts that may back up your claims. Witnesses can offer perspectives that might fill in gaps in your narrative.
- Insurance Claims: Detailed documentation helps streamline the process of filing insurance claims. Insurers need thorough evidence to process claims accurately and fairly.
- Legal Protection: Having comprehensive documentation can offer you legal protection. If disputes arise regarding the cause or details of the accident, having a well-documented account can strengthen your case.
- Medical Records: Photos of your injuries can help medical professionals track your progress and adjust treatments accordingly. This also supports any medical claims you may need to make in the aftermath.
Summary Documentation Tips
- Take Photos: Capture images of your injuries and the accident scene from multiple angles.
- Gather Information: Collect names and contact details of any witnesses present.
- File Reports: Ensure you report the accident to relevant authorities and keep a copy of all reports.
The Bottom Line
Documenting everything thoroughly after an accident helps secure your rights and ensures that you have all the necessary information to handle subsequent insurance and legal processes effectively.
Adhering to your doctor’s instructions after suffering from an internal injury is crucial for several compelling reasons:
Optimize Your Recovery
Following your prescribed treatment plan ensures that you are giving your body the best chance to heal effectively from your internal injuries. Medical professionals tailor these plans based on your specific needs and condition, leveraging their expertise to recommend the most effective action.
Prevent Complications
Sticking to your treatment regimen can help you avoid potential complications. Ignoring medical advice or not taking prescribed medications increases the risk of setbacks or worsening your condition, which can prolong your recovery.
Strengthen Legal Claims
If you’re involved in any legal proceedings due to your internal injuries, consistent adherence to your treatment plan can significantly support your case.
Documentation of following medical advice can serve as evidence that you are taking your recovery seriously, which can be crucial in legal scenarios, such as personal injury claims.
Ensure Accurate Medical Records
Accurate, up-to-date medical records are pivotal in your overall care and legal claims. Completing follow-ups and treatments as advised ensures your medical records reflect your injury’s true extent and progress, which can be essential for insurance purposes and legal documentation.
By following your doctor’s orders, you’ll enhance your recovery and ensure you’re covered in any legal or insurance matters that might arise.
Expert Legal Knowledge
Experienced personal injury lawyers bring a wealth of legal knowledge to your case. They understand the intricacies of personal injury law and can navigate the complex legal landscape. This expertise allows them to build a strong case on your behalf, increasing your chances of receiving the total value of your claim.
Proven Track Record
A seasoned personal injury lawyer often has a proven track record of success. They have handled numerous cases like yours and have a history of securing favorable client outcomes. This experience can be invaluable in negotiating settlements or taking your case to court if necessary.
Strong Negotiation Skills
Dealing with insurance companies and large corporations can be daunting. Experienced personal injury lawyers have honed their negotiation skills over years of practice. They know how to effectively communicate with these entities to ensure you receive a fair and just outcome.
Emotional Support and Guidance
Suffering an internal injury can be an emotionally taxing experience. An experienced lawyer not only provides legal representation but also offers emotional support and guidance throughout the process. They understand the distress you may be going through and are committed to alleviating your burden as much as possible.
Contingency Fee Basis
Many experienced personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay any upfront legal fees. They only get paid if you win your case, making legal services accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Comprehensive Case Management
From gathering evidence to consulting medical experts and calculating damages, an experienced personal injury lawyer manages all aspects of your case. This comprehensive approach ensures no detail is overlooked and maximizes your chances of receiving a fair outcome.
Free Strategy Session
Before committing to legal action, many experienced personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation or strategy session. This initial meeting allows you to discuss your case, understand your legal options, and decide how to proceed.
Conclusion
Choosing an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Their legal expertise, proven track record, negotiation skills, and emotional support provide a strong foundation for achieving your desired outcome. Don’t face a personal injury case alone—seek the guidance of a seasoned professional.
Immediate Injury Documentation:
Visiting a healthcare provider right after an accident ensures your injuries are documented accurately from the start. This medical record is crucial evidence linking your internal injuries directly to the incident.
Strengthening Your Claim:
Timely medical attention helps establish a clear connection between the accident and your injuries. Delay in seeking care can allow the opposing side to argue that your internal injuries were not severe or were caused by an unrelated event.
Preventing Further Complications:
Prompt medical care can also prevent minor injuries from becoming major complications. Addressing internal injuries early can lead to quicker recovery, which can, in turn, demonstrate your commitment to mitigating damages.
Legal and Insurance Requirements:
Some insurance policies and legal frameworks require immediate medical evaluation for a valid claim. Delays can jeopardize your compensation eligibility or diminish your claim’s value.
Establishing a Treatment Plan:
Early medical intervention allows healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan can include ongoing treatments, necessary surgeries, and rehabilitation, all of which can be factored into your claim.
Seek medical attention immediately after an accident to protect your health and personal injury claim.
How Should You Handle Communication with Insurance Companies?
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, especially after an incident. Here are some key points to consider to ensure you handle communication effectively:
- Seek Legal Counsel Before Speaking: Consult with a legal professional before giving any recorded statements. They can guide you on what to say and ensure you don’t inadvertently harm your case. They may also handle all communication with the insurance company to further protect your case.
- Avoid Quick Settlements: Insurance companies may offer quick settlements to resolve the matter swiftly. However, these initial offers are often much lower than what you may be entitled to. Take your time to assess the situation and seek legal advice before accepting any offers.
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with the insurance company, including emails, letters, and notes from phone conversations. Having a comprehensive log can be invaluable if disputes arise.
- Stay Factual and Professional: When communicating with insurance representatives, stick to the facts and avoid emotional language. Being professional and concise helps in presenting a clear and strong case.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and understand your rights. This knowledge empowers you during negotiations and ensures you’re not exploited.
By following these steps, you can more effectively navigate interactions with insurance companies, protecting your interests and potentially securing a better outcome.
How Keeping a Pain Journal Can Support Your Injury Claim
Keeping a detailed pain journal can significantly strengthen your injury claim. Here’s how:
1. Provides Detailed Documentation
A pain journal creates a comprehensive record of how your internal injuries impact your daily life. Documenting specifics like the intensity, frequency, and type of pain you experience can give a holistic view of your suffering.
2. Establishes Patterns
By noting the fluctuations in your discomfort, a pain journal reveals patterns that might correlate with certain activities or treatments. This information is invaluable for healthcare professionals and can support your claim by showing the ongoing nature of your pain.
3. Enhances Credibility
Consistency is vital. Recording your pain daily adds credibility to your testimony. It shows that your pain is real, persistent, and has a tangible effect on your life, reinforcing your position in legal or insurance proceedings.
4. Supports Medical Evidence
A pain journal can create a more compelling narrative when combined with medical records. For instance, if you note that your pain worsens after physical therapy, this information can be used to tailor your treatment and corroborate medical findings.
Tips for Keeping a Pain Journal
- Be Consistent: Write in your journal daily to ensure you capture all relevant information.
- Use Descriptive Language: Describe the pain accurately — sharp, dull, throbbing, etc.
- Include Impact on Daily Activities: Note how the pain affects your ability to perform tasks like walking, working, or sleeping.
- Track Medications and Treatments: Record any treatments or medications and their effects on your pain levels.
In short, a pain journal is a critical tool for documenting your suffering and supporting your injury claim. It bridges the gap between medical records and your personal experience, providing a robust foundation for your case.
Why Timing Matters: The Importance of Filing Your Claim Within the Statute of Limitations
State laws set a specific time limit for filing a claim after an auto accident, commonly known as the statute of limitations. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is usually two years after the incident date. Understanding and adhering to this deadline is crucial for several reasons.
Preserve Evidence
Over time, evidence can deteriorate or disappear. Witness memories may fade, surveillance footage could be erased, and physical evidence might be lost. Filing your claim promptly helps ensure that all vital evidence is preserved and available to support your case.
Legal Rights and Compensation
If you miss the deadline, you could lose your right to file a lawsuit, which means forfeiting any potential compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Acting quickly helps protect your legal rights and increases your chances of obtaining a fair outcome.
Medical Documentation
Timely filing allows for better documentation of your injuries. Medical evaluations done shortly after the accident can link your injuries directly to the incident more accurately, strengthening your claim.
Insurance Deadlines
Many insurance companies also have deadlines for filing claims. Delaying beyond these dates could result in your claim being denied, leaving you to shoulder financial burdens.
In summary, adhering to the statute of limitations is vital for gathering strong evidence, protecting your legal rights, ensuring accurate medical documentation, and meeting insurance requirements. Don’t let time run out on your chance for a fair outcome—act swiftly after an accident resulting in internal injuries.
The Advantages of Choosing a Contingency Fee Law Firm
Financial Relief and Accessibility: One of the primary benefits of opting for a law firm that works on a contingency fee basis is the financial relief it offers. You won’t need to worry about paying upfront costs or hourly rates. This makes legal services accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status.
Motivated Representation: When a law firm only gets paid if it wins your case, you can be assured that they are fully invested in achieving a favorable outcome for you. Their contingent earnings directly align with your success, ensuring they work diligently on your behalf.
Reduced Financial Risk: Choosing a contingency fee structure significantly reduces your financial risk. If your case isn’t successful, you won’t owe the law firm any fees. This can be particularly important for those who are already facing financial hardship due to medical bills, lost income, or other expenses related to your case.
Watch this video from Founding Partner Scott Snellings on what a contingency fee basis is.
Focus on Compensation: Firms operating on contingency fees are incentivized to secure the highest compensation possible for you. Their payment depends on a percentage of the settlement or award, so they have every reason to maximize your claim.
No Initial Consultations Fees: Often, law firms that work on contingency will also offer free strategy sessions. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your case without any financial commitment, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with legal action.
Why Should You Stay Off Social Media After Being Injured in an Accident?
Social media can seem like a harmless place to share updates and connect with friends and family. However, it’s important to think twice before posting anything after being injured in an accident. Here’s why:
Risk of Misinterpretation
Even innocent posts can be taken out of context. A photo of you smiling at a family event might be used to argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Privacy Concerns
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are public forums. Insurance companies and opposing legal teams may scrutinize your posts to find discrepancies in your claim. Be especially cautious about location tags and photos.
Legal Repercussions
If your case goes to court, opposing counsel can use your social media activity as evidence. Anything you post, share, or even like can be presented to undermine your case.
Surveillance and Monitoring
Lawyers and investigators regularly monitor social media for any posts that could be used to discredit your claims. Simple check-ins or status updates could be interpreted negatively.
Proactive Steps to Take
- Adjust Privacy Settings: Make your accounts private and restrict who can see your posts.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case: Refrain from posting anything related to the accident, your injuries, or the legal proceedings.
- Consult Your Attorney: Always seek advice from your legal team before making any posts.
By staying off social media, you protect yourself against potential pitfalls that could jeopardize your legal case and your ability to receive fair compensation.
How can our personal injury lawyers help you with your claim?
At Snellings Law PLLC, we have handled many cases involving internal injuries such as those listed above. Many times, adjusters try to minimize the value of these claims because they can’t see the harm in photographs. We use our experience helping victims with internal injuries communicate the severity of these injuries as well as their effect.
If you have suffered internal injuries in a car accident, motorcycle accident, bicycle accident, pedestrian accident, or any other type of accident, call us now at 214-387-0387 to set up a meeting with one of our attorneys free of charge.
How We Can Help
We understand that dealing with a personal injury claim can be daunting and stressful, especially when it involves serious injuries, medical bills, and emotional distress. Our experienced team is here to lift that burden off your shoulders and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Types of Cases We Handle
Our expertise spans a broad range of personal injury cases, including but not limited to:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Premises liability cases
We’ve successfully represented clients in diverse situations, from devastating car crashes to complex medical negligence cases. Whether you’re dealing with a life-changing injury or seeking justice for a loved one, our team of attorneys is prepared to stand by your side.
Comprehensive Representation
We aim to secure fair compensation for our clients, covering:
- Compensatory damages
- Punitive damages
- Non-economic damages
Our team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any upfront costs or hourly fees. We only get paid if we win your case, ensuring that our focus remains entirely on achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Dedicated to Your Success
We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of personal injury law and our unwavering commitment to our clients. Whether through settlement negotiations or jury trials, our goal is always to secure the best possible result for your case. Rest assured, you are in capable hands with our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys.
We have extensive experience representing personal injury victims and are ready to help you navigate the complexities of your case. Reach out to us today at 214-387-0387 to learn more about how we can assist you.
Free Strategy Session Reveals How To Avoid the Traps Insurance Companies Set for Victims to Destroy Claims.
If you prefer to call us click the button to call now!
How it works:
- Call us now or give us your basic information in the Free Strategy Session box
- If your case is something we cannot help you with, we will do our best to get you the information of someone who can.
- If we can potentially help you, we will schedule a Free Strategy Session
There is zero obligation. We want all injury victims to understand their rights and the process.
After your Free Strategy Session, you will understand where insurance companies can set traps for you and what needs to be done to avoid these traps. You will also understand the personal injury process as well as how we can help, or if you need the help of an attorney. The strategy session typically will have one of three outcomes. You:
- Decide to move forward with our law firm.
- Decide to think about it, and we will be available to answer your questions.
- Say, “I’ve got this,” and decide you do not need an attorney.
Again, there is zero obligation and you will be informed and understand your rights and the process. We want to arm you with knowledge to avoid the traps insurance companies set to harm your claim.
For more information on our office locations visit:
Frisco – Personal Injury Law Firm Office
If you or a loved one has been injured due
to someone else’s negligence, please call us today.