If you or your child has suffered an injury at a public pool, you may not know what to do. In addition to immediate medical attention that may be necessary, victims and their families often wonder about compensation for damages. Though it may feel overwhelming, following these steps will ensure that you get the process started to receive compensation for your injury.
Assemble Information
Gather together all information you have about the pool and its maintenance, including any records of inspections or accident reports on file at the facility where the accident occurred. You will likely need this information when filing your claim. If you feel as though you are missing some information, it is a good idea to ask for legal advice as soon as possible.
Get in Touch with a Lawyer
Talk to a personal injury lawyer to find out whether your case qualifies for compensation under premises liability law as well as to discuss what type and amount of damages you could recover. Personal injury lawyers will also be able to help guide you through the insurance claims process, helping ensure your rights are protected and that offers from insurers are fair.
File the Claim
When ready, file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company detailing your injuries, damages, and costs in an effort to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses related to the accident. If necessary, consider filing a lawsuit in court if you cannot reach an agreement before the applicable statute of limitations expires in your state on such claims.
Consult with the Insurance Company
Once the claim has been filed, it is important for you to keep in reliable touch with the insurance company. Wait for the specialists to review your claim and make an initial determination on coverage, if any. This is where you will also need to consult with your lawyer to determine that you are getting what you need from the case.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
If necessary, negotiate with the insurer or file a personal injury lawsuit in court in an effort to reach a full settlement of your damages claim. If the situation is clear-cut, you may not need to worry about this step, but if there are significant factors involved in your injury, your lawyer will help.
Take the time to always review the paperwork before you submit them to the appropriate channels. Make sure that you have everything prepared in order to make the process as smooth as possible.
