How to Make a Claim
For some information on what you should do following an accident, see our frequently asked questions below.
- What steps should I take immediately after the accident?
Here are four important things you need to know:
- Beware of Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often offer you a quick settlement after a serious injury which may be less than what you are actually entitled to receive. If you accept the settlement, you will forever lose your right to receive more money even if you may be entitled to more. - Be Careful What You Say to Anyone Following an Accident
Immediately following a serious injury, insurance companies often try to get a personal or signed statement from you about your case. Without a personal injury lawyer advising you, you could unknowingly say something which could hurt your case. - Protect All Relevant Evidence:
The actions taken immediately after a serious injury are extremely important. Whether related to medical care or the circumstances of the collision, details need to be properly documented and witnesses need to be immediately interviewed. Failure to properly do so may severely compromise the amount of money you receive and the future rights you may have. - Selecting A Lawyer
A lawyer with experience in handling personal injury claims will ensure your rights are protected and inform you of what you are entitled to. You should be able to entrust your personal injury lawyer with such important and sensitive matters. When you call 604-684-0040 you will get an appointment for a free consultation with John Mickelson or one of his associate injury lawyers.
- Beware of Early Settlement Offers
- Am I eligible to make a personal injury claim?
Anyone that has been injured may be eligible to make a personal injury claim. Firstly, one must determine who is at fault for the injury. Once it is determined that somebody else is responsible for your injuries, we assist you in determining what your claim is worth.
- What is my personal injury claim worth?
If the accident is not your fault, you are entitled, as far as possible, to be restored to your pre-accident position. The law does this by providing you a monetary award to fully indemnify you for economic losses and to provide a measure of solace for your pain and suffering as well as loss of enjoyment of life caused by your personal injury.
Our experienced lawyers are here to help you. We will ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation you are legally entitled to for your personal injury claim. There is no simple formula for determining how much your claim is worth. There are a number of factors which will influence the value of your claim:
- The circumstances of the accident
- Witness statements
- The extent of your injuries
- The extent of your medical treatment
- Time loss from work, both past and future
- The quality and content of the medical evidence
- The particular effects that the injuries have had on your life, including recreational, home, and work activities
- Whether or not you have pre-existing injuries or conditions
- Cost of care, both past and future
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- The limits of insurance coverage
- The results from recent case law
The only way to properly evaluate your injury is to consider each of these factors once all of the evidence is available. You will need the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure you receive the maximum the law will allow. Call our Vancouver office at 604-684-0040 for a free consultation.