Personal Injury Compensation Claims
Now that spring is here, more people are out and about, engaged in a variety of hobbies and activities. Unfortunately, this can result in an increase in the likelihood of mishaps and accidents, which can put you at risk for serious and even potentially disabling injuries. When a personal injury occurs, the actions you take can impact your ability to get the compensation you need to recover. The following outlines how personal injuries often occur and what you need to know when considering whether to file a personal injury claim.
How Personal Injuries Occur
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 30 million people visit hospital emergency rooms each year as the result of accidental injuries, often as the result of the following:
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
Pedestrian and bicycling accidents
Dog bites and attacks
Slips and falls
Severe cuts or burns
Being struck by or against an object
While generally thought of as being accidental in nature, personal injuries often occur due to the negligent or reckless actions of others. In these situations, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you suffered through a personal injury claim.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim
A personal injury claim may be filed with the at fault party’s insurance company or by filing a lawsuit in court. Claims can help cover any medical expenses and lost wages you suffer as the result of your injury, both now and in the years to come. The following are four things to be aware of when considering whether or not you should file a personal injury claim:
Serious complications can result from even minor injuries. Even in a relatively minor accident, you should always get medical attention as soon as possible. Many potentially serious conditions have symptoms that could take days or even weeks to appear. Waiting to get care could result in serious complications.
You should report any injury immediately to law enforcement, security personnel, or the property owner, as well as your insurance company. Failing to report an accident or injury could jeopardize your rights to compensation for the medical expenses and other damages you suffer.
Once you accept an insurance settlement, you will be waiving your rights to any further compensation. Insurance companies have a financial motive for undervaluing or denying your claim. While it may be tempting to accept a quick settlement offer, it is likely not to be in your best interest.
You have up to two years in which to file a claim. While you should report any accident or injury immediately, Title 15 of the South Carolina Code of Laws gives you two years after the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This allows time for insurance company negotiations, as well as to gather evidence in your case.
Contact Our Aiken, SC Personal Injury Attorneys Today
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, contact the Surasky Law Firm today. Our experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys can advise you on the best course of action, while helping to ensure your rights and interests are protected.
