Whether you’re dealing with the shock of the incident or the confusion of what to do next, the Suffolk County personal injury lawyers with Carner & DeVita are here to guide you through every important decision. Keep reading to learn what to do after an injury, then call (631) 543-7070 to schedule your free consultation.

what to do after an injury

Immediate actions: What to do after an injury

1. Seek medical attention

The priority after an injury is to seek medical care. Not only is this crucial for your health, but medical records will serve as important evidence if you decide to pursue a legal claim. New York law emphasizes the importance of documenting an injury through medical evaluations, as stated in the New York Civil Practice Law & Rules.

2. Report the incident

Whether the injury occurred at work, in a public place, or on private property, it is important to report the incident to the relevant authorities or responsible parties. This could include notifying a manager at a store, a supervisor at your job, or local law enforcement. Documentation from these reports can be pivotal in legal proceedings.

3. Document everything

Take detailed notes on what happened before, during, and after the incident. Photographs of the scene and your injuries, names and contact information of any witnesses, and a personal account written down as soon as possible after the incident can all be invaluable.

4. Preserve evidence

Keep any physical evidence intact. This could include torn clothing, a defective product, a hazardous material, or anything related to the incident. Do not throw away or alter these items, as they might be crucial for your claim.

Consulting legal advice: How Carner & DeVita can help

After addressing immediate health concerns and securing evidence, consulting with a personal injury attorney is a critical next step. Carner & DeVita can offer guidance based on a deep understanding of New York’s legal landscape:

  • Free initial consultation: Carner & DeVita provides a free consultation to discuss your case and assess the viability of your claim.
  • Navigating insurance claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. Your attorney will handle communications with insurers to ensure your rights are protected, and you are not settling for less than what is fair.
  • Legal representation: If your case goes to court, having experienced lawyers like those at Carner & DeVita can make a significant difference. They prepare thoroughly, ensuring that all evidence is ready and you are prepared for testimony.

Long-term considerations: What to do after an injury

Follow up on medical treatment

Continue to follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments. This not only aids in your recovery but also provides a continuous medical record of your injuries and recovery process.

Keep records of all expenses

Document every cost related to your injury, from medical bills to lost wages and travel expenses for medical appointments. These documents are crucial for calculating damages in your legal claim.

Stay organized

Keep a file with all documentation related to your injury and legal proceedings. Staying organized will help you and your attorney navigate the legal process more smoothly.

The most important step? Work with a top-rated attorney to protect your rights

With the support of a knowledgeable personal injury firm like Carner & DeVita, you can confidently navigate the aftermath of an injury, ensuring your rights are protected, and you are positioned to receive the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured, don’t hesitate to contact Carner & DeVita to explore your legal options and ensure that every step you take post-injury is a step toward justice and recovery.