If you were to get hurt in an accident caused by a stranger, you likely wouldn’t think twice about filing a personal injury claim. However, what happens if your accident was caused by a family member? Then, you may feel apprehensive about pursuing compensation. You care about family members and don’t want to hurt them financially. However, it’s still important to go after the compensation you’re entitled to.
Injuries Are Expensive and Can Affect Your Quality of Life
Whether it was due to a slip and fall accident or dog bite, injuries are nothing to make light of. They can result in significant pain, high medical bills, time off work and emotional distress. Some severe injuries can also result in permanent disability. You deserve to be compensated for that, even if your family member is the one who caused the accident.
In many cases, at-fault parties don’t have to pay for the victim’s losses out of their own pockets. Their insurance companies are responsible for paying the costs. For example, let’s say that you suffered a slip and fall accident in your family member’s home. His or her home insurance company would likely cover your medical expenses and other losses that resulted from the accident.
What to Do After Getting Into an Accident
If you were hurt in an accident caused by a family member, what you do immediately afterward can affect your right to compensation. Follow these important steps.
- Seek medical care. No matter what type of accident you were in, it’s critical to get medical attention immediately. A doctor will assess your injuries and recommend the proper treatment. Be completely honest about your symptoms and don’t exaggerate anything. If you embellish your injuries, it could damage your personal injury case.
- Have a conversation with your family member. If you plan on filing a personal injury claim against your family member, it’s best to be upfront with him or her. Tell your family member that the injury you suffered is costing you a lot of money and you plan to pursue compensation.
- Consult a lawyer. Filing a personal injury claim can be complex, so it’s beneficial to have a personal injury lawyer, like one from Burton Law Firm, on your side. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with your family member’s insurance company, and protect your rights.