FAQS FOR ON-THE-JOB ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES

First Steps to Take

There are several steps that you should take after your injury or accident to assist us in your case. Documentation is always highly important in the law, so document how the injury occurred by completing an on the job accident report.

  1. The first step should be to always report your injury to your employer ASAP. Usually, a verbal report is all you need to make. If you or a loved one has been injured or suffered a loss at work, the Law Offices of David Zimmerman can help you. You should also immediately seek medical care for your injuries from the doctor of your choice. This can be important because some company doctors may attempt to rush you back to work, regardless of your condition.
  2. Even if you don't think that you've been injured, please visit a doctor ASAP. Injuries may not be readily apparent at the time of the accident. A doctor's professional medical opinion is important to the court.
  3. Request that the injury be reported to the your employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier.
  4. Record the names and contact information of all the parties involved in the accident and any witnesses if possible.

Do you I really need an attorney?

One of the first things to ask yourself is: "What's at stake?". When your health, finances, or liberties are in serious jeopardy, the obvious answer is to get legal help. Also, filing an injury claim can be complex and time consuming, especially when the insurance company refuses to pay you the money you're entitled to.

Will I have to appear in court?

Many cases do not move forward to the court room. Sometimes, this is dependent on the insurance company's position. Your particular case could be settled outside of court if the insurance company offers you a settlement and you take the offer. If we are unable to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf, it might be best to proceed to court.

How much money is my case worth?

After evaluating the details of your accident or injury case, different types of compensation available in a personal injury lawsuit. Our attorneys need to know how your injuries occurred, who was involved , who was responsible for the accident, the extent of the injuries suffered, and what medical expenses you incurred.

How long will my case last?

With the nature of your injury, it's important to understand that you only have one opportunity to recoup for your pain and suffering, medical bills, and other financial burdens you have encountered. Once a settlement is accepted or a verdict is issued at trial, your case is over. There is the question of the opposing insurance company's cooperation level. During the different stages of a lawsuit, your attorney will be interacting frequently with an insurance company, either directly or through opposing counsel. Also, most personal injury lawsuits are settled and do not go to trial. Should your case go to trial, it can sometime take months to get the trial date set in court. Finally, the complexity of your case can be a big determining factor with simple, straightforward lawsuits often resolved in a matter of six months or so. The more complex the case, the longer the case.

Talk to the insurance adjustor?

Always consult an attorney before talking to an insurance adjustor. Your interests are not the interests of the insurance company. The adjustor is looking out for the best interest of the insurance company, not you. You don't have to give the adjustor a statement, and you don't have to take the first offer the insurance company gives you. The Law Offices of David Zimmerman can be of great assistance to you here to receive the highest offer possible.