Many people who have been in an accident in St. Petersburg, Florida file personal injury claims to compensate for the damages. Filing a claim can be complicated, though, so keep these tips in mind to make the most of your situation.

1. See a Doctor for Medical Care

If you were injured in an accident in St. Petersburg, you should make sure that you get the medical attention you need as soon as possible. Before you worry about personal injury claims, you need to make sure to address your injuries. In Florida, PIP (Personal Injury Protection) laws require you to see a medical professional within fourteen days of an accident in order to maintain your benefits. Later, if you file a lawsuit, having a record of seeking medical attention can be used to enhance your case.

2. File a Police Report

After an accident, be sure to contact law enforcement to document the scene of the incident. The police report can help demonstrate the facts of the incident, such as time, location, and the individuals involved. This can be beneficial in court if your case becomes a lawsuit.

3. Keep Detailed Records

Keep a detailed record of expenses related directly to the accident. For a concrete record of your medical care, hold onto hospital bills and medical diagnoses. When filing personal injury claims, documents like property damage bills, insurance records, and files of lost wages are proof of your injuries and show the extent of the damages the accident caused you. You should also take a moment and write down your recollection of the accident, including what happened before, during, and after and describing the injuries you sustained while the incident is still fresh in your memory.

4. Use Caution When Signing Anything

You face a lot of paperwork when filing personal injury claims, but always read every document or form in its entirety before signing. You need to understand what you are signing, as you could accidentally release the negligent party from their liability. This could possibly prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve. If you have any questions, reach out to your St. Petersburg personal injury attorney to go over the documents together.

5. Work with an Attorney When Filing Personal Injury Claims

One of the wisest decisions you can make when filing personal injury claims is choosing to work with an attorney. Trying to file a claim by yourself can be complicated, but an experienced lawyer can help ease the process and works hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact K LAW, PLLC in St. Petersburg to discuss your case by calling (727) 201-8444 or contacting us online.