With a personal injury lawsuit, you can potentially receive a large settlement for your injuries. This will naturally depend on the circumstances of your case; however, senior citizens often face greater challenges when it comes to getting proper compensation. The other parties involved may try to use their age against them to reduce or deny a settlement.
Whether you were in a car accident, slip and fall, or some other type of accident caused by someone else’s negligence, these tips can help you achieve better results for your case.
Keep Detailed Records
Having documentation substantiating your claims is one of the most important things you can do. As a senior, you may face greater challenges when going against insurance companies. They will likely attempt to claim that your injuries are the result of your age or pre-existing health conditions.
The odds of injury increase with age and often are more severe. Blaming these injuries on your health conditions is the easiest way out of a claim for insurance companies. However, you can prove them wrong by showing your injuries were from the accident and not related to any pre-existing conditions. Your physician can also sign a statement attesting to your health prior to the accident.
Never Delay Medical Attention
Immediately following your accident, you need to see your doctor. Seniors must be expedient about getting medical attention as the other party will try to claim that your injuries occurred after the accident rather than as a direct cause of it. For severe injuries, you’ll want to go to the ER. If your injuries aren’t life-threatening, you should go to a clinic. You can then use the medical reports to document your personal injury claims.
Show Photographic Evidence
After seeking medical treatment, you should ensure you’ve taken enough photos to present in your case. Have a family member or friend help you capture images of your injuries from all angles. If you were injured in a car accident, you should make sure you have photos and videos of the vehicular damage and accident scene.
Be Prepared For a Lower Settlement Offer
One of the most significant factors in personal injury settlements is the loss of income. As most seniors are retired, this will likely not be factored into the amount. That could result in a lower settlement in some cases, though if you are still working, you can still claim a loss of income.
Let a Personal Injury Attorney Represent You
Accidents are difficult situations, and you must allow yourself time to heal and rest. It can be stressful trying to handle all the paperwork for claims. Plus, the other party may make things more difficult for you.
With personal injury lawyers working on your behalf, you can breathe a sigh of relief. In a personal injury lawsuit, there are no fees unless your lawyer wins your case. You will have someone looking out for your best interests to get the resolution and compensation you deserve for your injuries.
