Settling Your Personal Injury Claim FAQ
If you are injured in an accident, here are the first steps to take.
I've been hurt in an accident and I want to file a claim for my injuries. What's the first thing I should do?
» How soon do I need to notify people about my intention to file a claim for my accident injuries?
What is the deadline for filing an accident injury claim against a government entity?
Is there a deadline for filing a lawsuit to recover compensation for my injuries?
How soon do I need to notify people about my intention to file a claim for my accident injuries?
Unless you're filing a claim against a government agency or employee, you need not notify the people you think are responsible for your injuries within a set number of days after an accident. But that doesn't mean you should drag your feet. On the contrary, acting right away -- within a few days, if possible -- will increase your chances of receiving a quick and fair resolution to your claim.
Giving notice doesn't obligate you to file a claim; it simply preserves your rights and prevents others from later saying that your claim is unfair because you waited too long to tell them about your injuries. If you promptly notify others that you intend to file a claim for your injuries, you can then move at your own pace in processing and negotiating the claim with the insurance company or government agency that winds up taking responsibility.
For more information, including whom to notify and how to give notice, see the article Personal Injury Claims: Notifying Responsible Parties.
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