Alabama’s personal injury claims process typically involves several stages, from negotiations with insurance companies to the possibility of going to trial.
With over 12 years of experience, Attorney April Collins has worked on many personal injury claims. Our legal team is well acquainted with the claims process and can help guide you through every step.
Below, we have outlined the process that a typical personal injury claim will go through from start to finish.
The Personal Injury Claim Process
The process begins with a personal injury incident, such as a car accident, slip and fall, or medical malpractice. As the injured party, you should seek immediate medical attention and treatment for your injuries.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, you may decide to hire a personal injury lawyer. Attorney April Collins can walk you through the claims process, assist with gathering evidence, ensure your rights are protected, and help pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Investigation Process
She will thoroughly investigate the incident, gathering proof and evidence such as accident reports, videos and photographs of the scene, witness statements, medical records, and any other relevant documentation to establish the other party’s liability.
Claim Filing
She will file a claim, highlighting every important piece of information relevant to the incident. This may include the injuries you sustained as well as the compensation sought. Remember that this claim will be filed with the responsible party’s insurance company.
Negotiations and Settlement Process
The insurance company will then examine the personal injury claim and offer a settlement. Your personal injury attorney will negotiate with the insurer to reach a fair and sufficient settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Most of the time, negotiations are successful, and both parties agree to a settlement amount. This stage is where most personal injury claims are resolved. However, some cases continue through the trial process.
Mediation (If Applicable)
If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, you may participate in mediation, where a neutral third party facilitates a resolution.
Lawsuit Filing
If negotiations and mediation do not result in an acceptable settlement, your attorney may file a personal injury lawsuit in the appropriate court against the at-fault party.
Discovery
An exchange of information and evidence happens between the two concerned parties. It could entail depositions, written questions, and so on.
Pretrial Motions
Before the trial, either party may file pretrial motions to address legal issues or ask the court to make specific rulings.
Settlement Negotiations
Even once an attorney files a lawsuit, settlement negotiations can continue. A court trial is a long and drawn-out process, so it is good that personal injury cases are often resolved without the need for trial.
Court Trial
In this stage, both sides provide evidence, witnesses may testify, and the jury or judge will determine liability and the amount of damages.
Verdict and Judgment
After the hearings and the trial, the judge or the jury will render a verdict. If you, as the plaintiff, are successful, the court will enter a judgment for the awarded damages.
Appeals
Either party has the option to appeal the court’s decision if there are legal errors or disagreements with the verdict.
Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Madison, AL, Can Help
Have you suffered an injury because another party violated their reasonable duty of care? If so, it is important that you enlist the help of a personal injury lawyer in Madison, AL, who can help you get your due compensation.
It is important to note that every personal injury case is unique, and the duration and outcomes of the claims process can vary based on the specific circumstances of each case. Attorney April Collins will guide you through each stage, advocate for your rights, and work toward achieving the best possible outcome.
To schedule an appointment, reach out to Collins Law today.