No two claims are similar in the personal injury landscape; every case is unique to the specific circumstances and facts around each accident. However, almost every personal injury case will progress through the same process.

Initial Consultation

The first step you should take after an accident is to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible, whether you have sustained minor or severe injuries. An experienced attorney will provide legal advice and guidance throughout your claim process. While contacting an attorney might seem like it's going to be a large additional cost during an already potentially financially stressful time, many personal injury lawyers deliver free consultations and legal representation under a contingency agreement.

During the initial consultation, you can expect to discuss the following with your personal injury attorney:

• How the accident occurred.
• The nature and extent of your injuries and damages.
• The liable party of the accident. 
• The type of treatment you've received and what future treatment you may need.
• Your financial and physical limitations caused by your injuries.

Investigating the Incident

Your attorney should immediately launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident and will review your statements and assess other involved parties to establish the cause of the accident.

The attorney will visit the accident scene to check traffic footage, take pictures, consult with witnesses, and obtain any accident reports. They will also determine the at-fault party and help file a claim with the relevant insurance company.

Your attorney will further prepare a demand package detailing everything from your injuries to liability and the need for compensation that may include:

• Police reports.
• Medical reports.
• Documentation of lost wages.
• Non-economic damages.
• Property damage.
• Receipts for out-of-pocket costs.

Your attorney will review the demand package with you to ensure it is complete before sending it to the relevant insurance company for settlement.

Filing a Personal Lawsuit

Once your attorney has sent a demand package, the responsible insurer will assess it and respond accordingly. They can respond by extending a settlement offer or rejecting the demand package. If an offer is extended, the involved parties will get to the table for negotiations in anticipation of reaching a reasonable settlement.

Suppose an offer is extended and the insurance company takes no other action. In that case, your personal injury lawyer will prepare to file a lawsuit and represent you in court to ensure you get adequate compensation for your injuries and damages.

Contact a South Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer

Discussing your personal injury case with an experienced attorney can help establish viable legal options for your case. At The Law Office of Tyler Rody, we will assess your case and work closely with you to take your case to court while protecting your rights.

Get started with your case by scheduling a free consultation or calling us at (864) 381-7969 to speak with Tyler Rody, a dedicated Spartanburg personal injury lawyer.