An injury claim is a legal request for compensation filed by someone who has been hurt due to another person’s negligence or wrongdoing. The goal of an injury claim is to recover financial damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by the accident. Understanding how an injury claim works can help you know what to expect and how to protect your rights.

How an Injury Claim Works

When someone is injured in an accident caused by another party, they have the right to file a claim for compensation. This process usually involves negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurance company or, if necessary, taking legal action. Here’s a breakdown of how an injury claim typically progresses:

1. Seeking Medical Treatment
   The first step after an injury is getting medical attention. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, some injuries take time to appear. Medical records play a key role in proving the extent of your injuries and the treatment required.

2. Filing an Insurance Claim
   After receiving medical care, you or your attorney will file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance provider. This step involves notifying the insurance company about the accident, providing evidence of fault, and submitting medical records and other documentation.

3. Investigation and Evidence Collection
   To strengthen your claim, your lawyer may gather evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, photos, and expert testimony. The goal is to prove how the injury happened and who is responsible.

4. Demand for Compensation
   Once your medical treatment is complete or your condition stabilizes, your attorney will submit a demand letter to the insurance company. This letter outlines your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages while requesting a settlement amount.

5. Negotiation Process
   The insurance company may accept, reject, or counter your demand with a lower offer. Negotiations can take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the case. Your attorney will work to secure a fair settlement that fully covers your losses.

6. Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
   If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may file a lawsuit. This moves the case to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. Most cases settle before trial, but sometimes a lawsuit is necessary to achieve a fair result.

7. Resolution and Compensation
   If a settlement is reached, you’ll receive financial compensation for your injuries. If the case goes to trial and you win, the court will order the at-fault party to pay damages. In either scenario, your lawyer will ensure all legal and medical bills are accounted for before finalizing the case.

Types of Injury Claims

There are several types of injury claims, including:

• Car accidents – Injuries from crashes caused by negligent drivers

• Slip and fall accidents – Injuries from unsafe conditions on someone else’s property

• Workplace injuries – Harm suffered while on the job, often covered by workers’ compensation

• Medical malpractice – Injuries caused by medical errors or negligence

• Defective products – Injuries from unsafe or malfunctioning products

How Long Do You Have to File an Injury Claim?

Every state has a statute of limitations, which is the deadline for filing an injury claim. In Washington, you typically have three years from the date of the injury to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. It’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed on time.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. The injury claim process can be complex, but working with an experienced attorney can help you secure the financial recovery you need.

At Murphy Trial Law, we fight for injured individuals in Bothell, WA, and ensure they get the justice they deserve. Call us today at (425) 835-2614 for a free consultation.