STEPS OF PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM

When you or a loved one is seriously injured, it can be difficult to know what the future holds. Knowing the steps of filing a personal injury claim can give accident victims and their families peace of mind, as well as help them prepare for settlement negotiations with the help of an injury lawyer.

While every personal injury claim is unique, most follow the steps we’ve outlined below. With the help of James H. Brown and Associates’ experienced team, accident victims and their families can protect their rights and secure the compensation they need to move forward after a serious injury.

Not sure if an injury lawyer is right for you? Take our 5-minute quiz to find out how James H. Brown and Associates can help!

Our Claims Process

The road to recovery

HOW TO KNOW IF AN injury LAWYER IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Step-by-step

How a personal injury claim works

INJURY

Personal injury claims start with someone being injured due to the actions of a third party.

The most important thing after sustaining an injury is to seek medical attention. Ensure that your doctor thoroughly documents your injuries, their symptoms, and other results of your injury. Additionally, ensure that you or a loved one file a police report to ensure that the accident leading to your injuries is documented completely; this information will be vital during the “investigation” phase of your claim.

SPEAKING WITH AN INJURY LAWYER

After an injury, the next step you should take is speaking with an injury lawyer to get sound legal advice. A good injury lawyer can help you determine if you have a case, if it’s worth retaining an injury lawyer, what types of evidence you will need to secure a settlement, and more.

James H. Brown and Associates proudly offers free, no-obligation consultations to help you get started right away.

INVESTIGATION

Once you’ve retained an injury lawyer, they will begin investigating your case. Their goal is to gather information that proves your injuries and damages were caused directly by the accident, and that the responsible party (and their insurance) owe you compensation.

Every accident is different, and every case will require different types of evidence. However, some common types of information gathered include:

  • Pre- and post-accident medical records.
  • Police reports.
  • Documentation related to missed work, loss of income, etc
  • Evidence of how your injuries have impacted your life.

In addition to an experienced team of injury lawyers, James H. Brown and Associates has access to a complete team of investigators, analysts, economists, and other professionals to assist in gathering evidence about your injuries and help build a strong case.

NEGOTIATING WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES

Next, your injury lawyer will begin negotiations with the other party’s insurance company and begin the process of securing your settlement. This initial negotiation and discussion can largely influence the timeline for your case.

Negotiating with an insurance company can be extremely challenging. Remember: their goal is to make a profit, not ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. An injury lawyer is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected during settlement negotiations, and that you receive complete, fair compensation for your injuries.

PRE-TRIAL QUESTIONING AND MEDIATION

Throughout settlement negotiations, your injury lawyer will be preparing to go to trial if necessary; if they stall, they’ll be ready to take the next steps right away. This includes filing documentation with the Courts and setting up Questioning. Here, the plaintiff may be questioned and asked a series of questions to assess credibility, the strength of the case, and entitlement to damages in an attempt to reach a settlement before trial.

Additionally, the pre-trial phase may also include mediation or a Judicial Settlement Conference to attempt to settle out of court. Your injury lawyer will work with the insurance adjuster/other lawyer (as well as a neutral third party or a judge) to attempt to negotiate a settlement.

TRIAL

Injury cases only go to trial when all other options have failed. Both sides will identify and question witnesses and explain their side of the case to persuade the judge and/or jury into believing their version of events. The judge and jury will have the final say on damages awarded.

If your injury case makes it this far, it’s critical that you have an injury lawyer with trial experience on your side. Because so few cases actually go to trial, not every injury lawyer has this experience. James H. Brown and Associates’ team includes multiple lawyers with a proven record of success taking accident injury claims to court.

HOW PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS WORK IN ALBERTA

While our proven record of success speaks for itself, many of our clients want to know what they can expect throughout the legal process. Unfortunately, no two accidents are alike; depending on the type/severity of your injury, the other party’s insurance, and other factors surrounding your accident, every accident victim will have a different experience with the legal and settlement systems.

However, with 250 years of combined injury law experience, James H. Brown and Associates have the knowledge, experience, and resources ready to help accident victims navigate every phase of their claim. Learn more about how we help navigate the legal process below.

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION

legal process FAQ

To initiate a personal injury claim in Edmonton, Alberta, you typically start by consulting with a personal injury lawyer. They will guide you through the process of gathering evidence, filing a claim, and negotiating with the involved parties. 

Common personal injury cases in Edmonton include motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall incidents and medical malpractice. Each case is unique, and consulting with a lawyer will help determine the specific legal steps for your situation.

Consult with a medical professional and make sure you receive the proper care required to ensure your recovery is not prolonged or affected. Then speak with a Personal Injury Lawyer to understand your rights.

Compensation in a personal injury case in Edmonton is typically determined based on factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Your lawyer will help assess the value of your claim.

Yes, there is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury claim in Edmonton. It’s crucial to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure you meet the deadlines for your specific case.

Insurance plays a significant role in personal injury claims in Edmonton. In many cases, compensation is sought from the at-fault party’s insurance company. Your lawyer will help navigate the communication and negotiation process with the insurance providers.

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