A clear checklist for victims of personal injury. From the first steps after the accident to the final settlement: what should you do and what should you keep in mind?
Immediately After the Accident
The first steps are crucial for a successful claim.
Checklist Acute Phase
| Action | Why | Done? |
|---|---|---|
| Seek medical help | Health and documentation | β |
| Call the police (in case of traffic accident) | Police report, registration | β |
| Take photos of the situation and injuries | Evidence | β |
| Note details of the at-fault party | Identification of liable party | β |
| Note details of witnesses | Evidence | β |
| Inform own insurer | Coverage and assistance | β |
First Weeks
In the first weeks after the accident, these steps are important.
Checklist First Weeks
| Action | Why | Done? |
|---|---|---|
| Engage a personal injury specialist | Professional guidance | β |
| Hold at-fault party liable in writing | Start procedure, toll prescription | β |
| Keep track of all medical treatments | Damage documentation | β |
| Keep a diary of complaints | Substantiation of limitations | β |
| Save receipts and invoices | Substantiation of costs | β |
| Inform employer | Absence registration | β |
Damage Documentation
Good documentation is essential for your claim.
What to Keep?
- β Medical reports and letters
- β Referral letters and prescriptions
- β Invoices and receipts for costs
- β Correspondence with insurer
- β Photos of injuries (progression)
- β Payslips (for loss of income)
- β Witness statements
- β Police report
During Treatment
During the ongoing personal injury case, these points require attention.
Checklist Ongoing Case
| Action | Frequency | Done? |
|---|---|---|
| Discuss progress with representative | Monthly | β |
| Request advances if needed | In financial need | β |
| Toll prescription | Every 4 years | β |
| Report new developments | Immediately | β |
| Prepare for expert assessments | At appointment | β |
At Medical Expert Assessment
A medical expert assessment is an important moment. Good preparation is essential.
Preparation for Expert Assessment
- β Review all medical documents
- β List complaints and limitations on paper
- β Describe typical day
- β Describe situation before accident
- β Prepare questions for expert
- β Bring support (partner, family)
Settlement
At the final settlement of the case.
Checklist Settlement
| Action | Pay Attention | Done? |
|---|---|---|
| Assess proposal | Compare with calculated damage | β |
| Check future damage | All items included? | β |
| Review tax implications | Box 3 levy | β |
| Read settlement agreement | Final discharge | β |
| Consider second opinion | If in doubt about amount | β |
Points of Attention
General points of attention throughout the entire process.
Important Points
- β Be honest about your complaints and limitations
- β Do not accept a proposal too quickly
- β Let yourself be assisted by a specialist
- β Take time for decisions
- β Watch prescription periods
- β Keep your file organized
- β Ask for explanation on ambiguities
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes.
Do Not
- β Settle too quickly
- β Negotiate without assistance
- β Fail to document damage properly
- β Postpone medical treatment
- β Let prescription run out
- β Exaggerate or conceal complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my right of withdrawal?
For online purchases, you have a 14-day right of withdrawal without giving a reason, unless statutory exceptions apply.
How long does the statutory warranty last?
Goods must function for at least 2 years. Defects arising within 6 months are presumed to have been present already.
Can I claim interest on debts?
Yes, you can claim statutory interest (currently approximately 8% per year) on the outstanding amount.
What can I do against unfair commercial practices?
You can file a complaint with the consumer association, the government, or go to court.
What is a credit agreement?
A credit agreement regulates how you borrow money, what the interest is, and how you repay it.