Immediate actions after an accident significantly impact claim strength and potential compensation. Seek medical attention immediately even if injuries seem minor—adrenaline masks pain and some injuries manifest symptoms days later. Medical records created promptly establish injury documentation directly linking harm to the incident. Delaying treatment allows insurance companies to argue injuries resulted from unrelated causes.

Document everything possible at the accident scene. Take photos of injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their independent accounts prove invaluable if disputes arise. File police reports for accidents, obtaining the report number for future reference. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, and how injuries affect daily activities.

Critical steps after an accident:

• Seek immediate medical evaluation documenting all injuries
• Photograph accident scene, injuries, and property damage
• Obtain witness contact information and statements
• File police reports and obtain report numbers
• Keep records of all medical treatments and expenses
• Avoid discussing fault or posting about the accident on social media

Never provide recorded statements to other parties' insurance companies without attorney guidance—these statements can be used against you later, with innocent comments twisted to minimize your claim value.

Personal injury claims follow predictable timelines, though duration varies significantly based on case complexity and defendant cooperation. Initial investigation and medical treatment typically span weeks to months as injuries stabilize and treatment completes. Attorneys need complete medical records showing full injury extent before accurately valuing claims and beginning negotiations.

Negotiation phases often last several months as attorneys and insurance companies exchange information, evaluate evidence, and discuss settlement. Most cases settle without trial—roughly 95% resolve through negotiation, avoiding court costs and uncertainty. Trials add 1 to 2 years to timelines, though they sometimes secure larger awards when defendants refuse reasonable settlements.

Typical claim timeline:

• Initial consultation and case evaluation within days
• Investigation and medical treatment spanning 3-6 months
• Demand letter and negotiation period lasting 2-6 months
• Litigation filing if settlement negotiations fail
• Discovery and depositions extending 6-12 months
• Trial preparation and proceedings adding another 6-12 months

Statutes of limitations impose strict deadlines for filing claims, typically 2 to 3 years from injury dates depending on jurisdiction and claim type. Missing these deadlines permanently bars claims regardless of merit, making prompt attorney consultation essential.

Contingency fee arrangements mean attorneys receive payment only if they recover compensation for you, typically taking 33% to 40% of settlements or verdicts. This structure makes legal representation accessible regardless of financial resources while aligning attorney interests with maximizing your recovery. "No win, no fee" means you owe nothing if the case doesn't succeed, though some agreements require covering court costs separate from attorney fees.

Fee percentages typically increase if cases proceed to trial due to additional work involved. A standard arrangement might charge 33% for cases settling before litigation, 40% after filing suit, and 45% if appeals become necessary. Read contingency agreements carefully, understanding what percentage applies at different case stages and who pays for costs like expert witnesses, depositions, and court filing fees.

Evaluating personal injury attorneys:

• Experience handling cases similar to yours
• Track record of settlements and verdicts in comparable cases
• Communication style and responsiveness to questions
• Resources to properly investigate and litigate claims
• Reputation among peers and former clients
• Clear fee structure and cost explanations

During consultations, assess attorney communication and comfort level. Strong attorneys explain complex legal concepts clearly, set realistic expectations about outcomes and timelines, and demonstrate genuine interest in your case rather than rushing through consultations. Most personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations, allowing you to meet several before deciding who best fits your needs and situation.