Accidents happen. It’s a fact of life. Whether you’re walking down the street and you trip over your own feet, or you’re in the office and stumble over a piece of torn carpet. Car accidents, dog bites, faulty products, and even medical errors…there are so many potential incidents just waiting to happen, it’s no wonder more people than ever before are filing personal injury claims.

If you’ve been in an accident and it could have been avoided, then you shouldn’t suffer the burden of rising medical bills, time off work, and damage to your physical and mental wellbeing. Speaking with a lawyer – like a PI lawyer based in NYC – should be the next step you consider.

If you do decide to go ahead with your personal injury claim, then your work doesn’t stop there. Check out these important steps that anyone who’s filing a PI claim should remember.

See a doctor straight away

Despite how angry you’re feeling and how unjust the situation might be right now, if you’ve suffered an injury at work, on the road, at home with a faulty product, or in a public place, you must act now and see a doctor straight away.

By seeking advice and treatment from a medical professional the doctor can let you know exactly what’s wrong, what injuries you have sustained and what kind of treatment you’re going to need to get yourself back to full health. The doctor will make full and accurate records of their findings in your medical notes, something which may be of use in your case.

Ensure the accident is officially recorded

Whether you’ve slipped on a grape in the supermarket and broken your leg, you’ve sustained a head injury at work from a falling object or you’ve been in a car accident on your way home. Ensuring that the accident is officially recorded provides proof that it happened. This could include informing staff of what happened, reaching out to your manager at work or calling the police at the scene of a road collision. With this kind of record on file, the fact the accident occurred cannot be disputed.

Evidence is key

If you’ve tripped over a pothole in a parking lot, then take photographs and if possible, take measurements. That wet floor in the supermarket without the “wet floor” warning sign, should also be photographed as evidence. The scene of a crash should also be well documented with photos and video evidence of the injuries sustained, and the damage and positioning of the vehicles involved. You should also speak to witnesses and get their details. If you’re unable to take pictures at the time, as someone to help you.

Keep hold of all your receipts

If your expenses since your accident have gone up, due to a rise in childcare costs, public transport and care, not forgetting the loss of income you’re facing, you should make a note of every penny you’ve had to spend. These may add weight to your claim and be compensated for if your case is successful.

Final thoughts…

If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, speak with a PI lawyer as soon as possible.