Personal injury claims arise when a person is injured due to another’s negligence or intentional actions. The injury could be physical, emotional, or financial. And it could result from several situations, such as an auto accident, medical malpractice, slip-and-fall, or product liability.
Filing a personal injury claim in California can be intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with the legal framework. However, you can successfully navigate the process with proper guidance and support. This guide outlines the steps involved in filing a personal injury claim in California to help you understand the process and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Step 1: Consult with an Attorney
Consultation with a personal injury attorney is the first step in filing a personal injury claim.
During your initial consultation, your attorney will examine the facts of your case, including the circumstances surrounding your injury, the nature and severity of your injuries, and any potential liability concerns. They will then provide you with an assessment of your case, including its strengths and weaknesses, as well as your likelihood of success.
Based on their assessment, the attorney will determine whether they can take on your case—and if so, will provide you with a detailed action plan.
Step 2: Gathering Evidence
The next step is to gather evidence supporting your claim. This includes eyewitness accounts, photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and any other supporting documents.
Evidence is essential to the outcome of your personal injury claim, as it helps establish that the other party was at fault for your injuries. Your attorney can help you with this step.
Step 3: Filing a Claim with the Insurance Company
The next step is to file a claim with the insurance company of the party responsible for your injuries. The insurance company will review the claim and decide if it will accept liability for your injuries. If the insurance company accepts liability, they will make a settlement offer.
Say the insurance company does not accept liability or makes a low offer. In that case, your personal injury attorney will continue negotiating with the insurance company until a fair settlement is reached that compensates you for your injuries and related expenses.
Step 4: Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, the next step is to file a lawsuit. A lawsuit allows you to present your case in court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome of the case.
Your personal injury attorney will file the lawsuit on your behalf. They will present evidence and make arguments to support their position. If you win the case, the court will issue a judgment requiring the other party to compensate you for your injuries.
Contact an Orange County Personal Injury Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Orange County and need legal assistance, the Soliman Firm is here to help. Our team of experienced Orange County personal injury attorneys has the knowledge and resources required to build a strong case and get you the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at (714) 491-4111 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation.