If you have been injured, seek medical attention immediately. You will need medical records to help prove your personal injury claim—plus, a checkup could help save your life as many injuries can be latent for some time. Also, keep any documentation related to your accident that could potentially be used later as evidence, such as receipts and photographs.

Seeing a doctor after an accident is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your claim. A doctor can help you determine the extent of your injuries and will be able to detect latent, internal injuries that may worsen if left untreated. This will help you adequately determine the extent of your injuries so you can receive the full compensation you deserve.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is exactly two years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions for certain cases depending on the circumstances. We always recommend initiating the case process as soon as possible so the evidence is still easy to collect when you start.

Consult with a local personal injury attorney in your area to learn about your legal rights and options. Next, retain a lawyer to initiate the claims process or being collecting evidence on your own. Without an attorney, you will need to interview witnesses, collect and file paperwork, conduct the discovery process, negotiate a settlement, and potentially go to trial on your own. Otherwise, your lawyer will walk you through these steps with your goals in mind.

Hiring a personal injury attorney is not a requirement to file a claim. However, working with a lawyer will help the process run far more smoothly and likely earn you additional compensation. It is up to you to decide whether you possess the skills and/or desire to handle your claim yourself or would feel more comfortable working side by side with an experienced lawyer.

It is impossible to determine what a case is worth without calculating the victim’s unique losses. Everyone will have to spend a different dollar amount on their medical bills, property damage repairs, and other financial losses related to the accident. By discussing your case with a lawyer, you can receive assistance estimating the value of your particular losses more accurately. Additionally, make sure to save all receipts and bills related to your accident to ensure you are properly compensated.

When you file a personal injury claim in Texas, you may be able to receive any and all of the following forms of compensation that apply to your case:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Punitive damages (in rare cases)
• Funeral and burial expenses in the event of wrongful death
• Property damage repair and replacement costs
• Other out of pocket expenses related to your accident and recovery

While most personal injury cases are settled before trial, there is always a chance your case will make it all the way to litigation. At Brian Hargrove Law, we are always prepared to go to court on behalf of our injured clients should the need arise.