If you were injured through another party’s negligent or wrongful actions, you may be able to hold them financially accountable by filing a personal injury lawsuit against them. However, older adults often face unique challenges when seeking financial relief through personal injury claims. Here, the OKC injury attorneys at the Cain Law Office offer some tips for seniors to keep in mind if they are considering their legal options after an accident.
Keep Detailed Documentation
Seniors can face difficulties proving their cases, so meticulous documentation is critical. Your attorney must prove that your injuries resulted from the other party’s actions. Furthermore, insurance companies may exploit your age to pay as little as possible in a settlement. They may try to blame your injuries on pre-existing conditions, frailty, or other conditions associated with age. Having incontrovertible proof in the form of documentation is essential to ensure you maximize your settlement.
Expect a Lower Settlement
Settlement amounts are often based on economic losses such as lost wages and loss of future earning capacity. However, because many seniors are retired or no longer work full-time, they may not be compensated for these losses.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention
After an accident, seek medical attention immediately. If your injuries are severe, go to the emergency room or an urgent care facility. Even if your injuries seem minor or you appear uninjured, you should see your doctor to have the visit added to your medical record. That way, there is proof of your injuries and a medical assessment of their cause.
Take Photos
Pictures of the accident scene can be compelling evidence in a personal injury lawsuit. Take multiple photos from various angles of the location and your injuries. If your injuries prevent you from doing so, ask a friend or family member to help you.
Give Yourself Time to Heal
In the aftermath of an accident, it is vital to focus on your health. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments. Failure to do so could impair your health and jeopardize your case, as the other side could argue that your injuries aren’t serious if you do not get treatment.
Determine If a settlement Might Affect Other Benefits
Many seniors receive government benefits such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While SSDI benefits are not based on your financial need, SSI benefits are, which means a sudden influx of income from a personal injury settlement could affect your benefits.
Work with an Experienced OKC Injury Attorney
Personal injury lawsuits can be complicated, especially if you suffer a severe injury. That’s why working with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial. A lawyer can handle legal matters while you focus on healing and recovery.
Contact the OKC Personal Injury Attorneys at Cain Law Office for Help
If you’ve been injured in an accident that was not your fault, you deserve to be fairly compensated by the responsible party. Working with an attorney who understands the unique challenges older plaintiffs face can improve your chances of getting the full compensation you deserve. Contact Cain Law Office today for a free consultation with an OKC personal injury lawyer who can stand up for your rights and build an effective case on your behalf.
