Making a personal injury compensation claim is often straightforward in situations where it’s clear your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Other claims can prove trickier, with the insurer pushing back and challenging the applicant’s version of events, the extent of their injuries, and even whether the person seeking compensation contributed to the injury-causing event. Getting prompt legal advice from our Gold Coast Personal Injury Lawyers is crucial.

For this reason it’s important to make all the right moves when pursuing a claim, from as soon as possible after the accident right through to a mutually acceptable resolution of the matter.

Below we list the key things to do once you’ve been injured to maximise your chances of a successful compensation claim.

Seek Prompt and Appropriate Medical Treatment

Your health should be the top priority after an accident. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Delaying treatment can not only worsen your condition but also undermine the credibility of your claim. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up care diligently.

Gather All Relevant Details

While seeking medical attention for your injury is obviously the first priority after an incident, as soon as possible after that it’s essential to collect as much information from the location. In some cases - where your injury required hospitalisation, for example - you may need to deputise friends, colleagues or family members to help with this key step.

Whether it’s a work accident, a motor vehicle accident or an injury from a fall in a public place, trying to obtain the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved, and the contact details of any witnesses to the accident, can later prove crucial to the success of the claim. Where possible, take photographs or videos of the accident scene, visible injuries, and any property damage. These details will help establish liability and support your claim.

Provide Accurate Information at Medico-Legal Appointments

Insurance companies will usually insist on an applicant for compensation undergoing independent medical examinations or evaluations as part of the personal injury claim, in order to verify the severity and extent of the injury.

It's crucial to provide accurate and complete information about your injuries, symptoms, and pre-existing conditions (if any). Do not minimise or omit any details, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Glossing over or failing to disclose relevant information – if subsequently discovered - can damage your credibility and jeopardise your claim.

Document Everything

Keep a detailed record of all expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses resulting from the accident and your injuries. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, travel expenses for medical appointments, and any necessary home modifications or assistive devices. Also, document your recovery progress, including ongoing symptoms, limitations, and the impact on your daily life.

Provide All Relevant Documentation to Your Lawyer

A compensation claim is only as good as the information and evidence supporting it. Your chances of a successful outcome are improved if your personal injury lawyer is in possession of comprehensive information to build a strong case and accurately calculate your damages. Provide your chosen compensation specialist with all relevant documentation, including medical records, pay records, tax returns, business records (if self-employed), and any other evidence of your losses. Armed with this information, your legal representative can properly negotiate your claim to a fair settlement or, if necessary, make a compelling case at trial.

Avoid Discussing the Accident or Your Claim

It's essential to refrain from discussing the details of the accident or your claim with anyone other than your lawyer and healthcare providers. Any statements you make could be misconstrued or used against you, potentially weakening your case. Additionally, avoid posting about the incident or your injuries on social media, as these posts could be used to challenge the extent of your damages.

Call our expert team for an initial consultation

Personal injury claims can be complex and often take time to resolve. By entrusting your claim to a firm like Lifestyle Injury Lawyers – who do nothing else but specialise in compensation – and following some of the basic guidance we’ve provided in this article, you increase your chances of a successful personal injury claim and maximise the compensation you receive for your losses. Remember, your actions and attention to detail from the moment the accident occurs can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Contact us today to discuss your case with our personal injury lawyers.