One of the first things you should do if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence is to contact an attorney. They can help you get the money you deserve to pay bills and maintain your quality of life so you can recover without worry.
Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that an attorney will take your case. You may discover that your attorney isn’t willing to work with you.
Don’t let their decision keep you from moving forward in your life. Here’s what you should do in the days and months after your case is declined by your attorney.
Talk to a Different Attorney
Don’t assume that because the first attorney you approach won’t take your case that no attorney will take your case. It’s true that they might turn you down because your case isn’t very strong, but it could also be possible that they don’t have the expertise that is required to win your case, they may feel like there’s a conflict of interest, or they may simply not have enough time. It’s worth your time to search for a different attorney.
Plan to schedule consultations with one or two more lawyers to discuss your case. Even if your case is difficult, you may find that there’s an attorney out there who is willing to take it on. With extra support from an attorney, you’ll be glad you didn’t give up the first time you were told no.
Apply for Disability Benefits
Applying for short- or long-term disability benefits is one of the first things you should do if you are injured and are unable to return to work. The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get the money you need to continue paying your bills, whether you’re waiting for a settlement or you simply can’t return to work.
If you’re waiting for your first payment or you’re struggling even after you receive disability benefits, look into other government programs that can help. From specific programs that help you pay bills to rental assistance and food programs, there is a lot of help out there if you and your family need it.
Go to Your Medical Appointments
If you’re struggling to find the assistance you need, whether from an attorney or the government, it’s easy to let your medical appointments slide. If you can’t afford to pay the bills, you may tell yourself that you can’t afford to go to your medical appointments either.
It is so important to prioritize your health if you want to recover from your injury. Keep your appointments to the best of your ability. Bring up your concerns with your doctor if costs are a concern. They may be able to safely reduce the number of your appointments, or they may be able to refer you to resources or other doctors who can help.
Take Time for Your Mental Health
It’s normal for your mental health to take a dip if you’re dealing with an injury. Scheduling appointments with a therapist is a great option, but if you don’t have the time, the money, or the interest, there are plenty of things you can do to get through a tough time.
A few ideas include:
- Write about it
- Set aside dedicated worry time every day, then move on
- Talk to friends and family
- Start a new hobby
- Spend time outdoors
- Get some exercise
Find a New Way to Make Money
There are a lot of things to worry and think about when you’re dealing with a personal injury, but for many who are injured, providing for their family is one of the biggest concerns. If you’re having a hard time sitting at home and worrying about your struggling family, you’ll feel a lot better if you find a new way to make money.
There are many things you can do to make a little extra cash, and the Social Security Administration may even be willing to help you. Some part time jobs won’t affect the money you receive from your disability benefits, you can find free training programs and grants that will help you go back to school, or you can simply find quick and easy ways to make a few extra bucks from home.
You aren’t doomed if the first attorney you talk to won’t take your case. From finding one who will to your mental and physical health, there are plenty of things you can do to get over your injury as fast as possible.
