Settlement Alerts:

$9,250,000 Defamation Case Win Against The New York Times 8/26
$6,800,000 Wrongful Death 8/26
$81,000,000 Children Born Addicted (as part of the trial team)
$18,000,000 Product Liability 12/19
$13,000,000 Medical Malpractice – Sexual Assault 8/23
$225,000 Civil Litigation 7/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$30,000 Medical Malpractice 7/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$42,690 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$2,759,223 Opioid Litigation 6/26
$70,000 Medical Malpractice 6/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 6/26
$100,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$420,000 Jail Litigation 5/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$650,000 Jail Litigation 5/26
$46,937 Opioid Litigation 5/26
$150,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 5/26
$285,000 Medical Malpractice 4/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Personal Injury 3/26
$40,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$32,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$42,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 1/26
$30,000 Personal Injury 1/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 12/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 12/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$77,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$26,668 Personal Injury 9/25
$25,000 Personal Injury 9/25
$97,500 Personal Injury 9/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$100,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 8/25
$100,000 Wrongful Death 7/25
$45,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/25
$200,000 Wrongful Death 6/25
$1,200,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 6/25
$200,000 Slip & Fall 6/25
$26,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/25
$800,000 Jail Litigation 5/25
$925,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$125,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$700,000 Jail Litigation 4/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$125,000 Personal Injury 4/25
$20,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/25
$1,300,000 Jail Litigation 2/25
$210,000 Slip & Fall 2/25
$100,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/25
$975,000 Medical Malpractice 1/25
$4,000,000 Jail Litigation 1/25

$9,250,000 Defamation & False Light 8/26
$6,800,000 Wrongful Death 8/26
$81,000,000 Children Born Addicted (as part of the trial team)
$18,000,000 Product Liability 12/19
$13,000,000 Medical Malpractice – Sexual Assault 8/23
$225,000 Civil Litigation 7/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$30,000 Medical Malpractice 7/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$42,690 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/26
$2,759,223 Opioid Litigation 6/26
$70,000 Medical Malpractice 6/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 6/26
$100,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$420,000 Jail Litigation 5/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/26
$650,000 Jail Litigation 5/26
$46,937 Opioid Litigation 5/26
$150,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 5/26
$285,000 Medical Malpractice 4/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 3/26
$50,000 Personal Injury 3/26
$40,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$32,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/26
$42,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 1/26
$30,000 Personal Injury 1/26
$50,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 12/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 12/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$77,500 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 11/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$26,668 Personal Injury 9/25
$25,000 Personal Injury 9/25
$97,500 Personal Injury 9/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 9/25
$100,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 8/25
$100,000 Wrongful Death 7/25
$45,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 7/25
$200,000 Wrongful Death 6/25
$1,200,000 Wrongful Death – Jail Litigation 6/25
$200,000 Slip & Fall 6/25
$26,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/25
$800,000 Jail Litigation 5/25
$925,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 5/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$125,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$700,000 Jail Litigation 4/25
$25,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 4/25
$125,000 Personal Injury 4/25
$20,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/25
$1,300,000 Jail Litigation 2/25
$210,000 Slip & Fall 2/25
$100,000 Motor Vehicle Accident 2/25
$975,000 Medical Malpractice 1/25
$4,000,000 Jail Litigation 1/25

CALL US NOW

5-Star Google Rating•BBB Rating: A+•West Virginia State Bar•The United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia•The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals•The United States Supreme Court•American Association for Justice•Opioid Justice Team•Trial Lawyers Care•West Virginia Association for Justice•5-Star Google Rating•BBB Rating: A+•West Virginia State Bar•The United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of West Virginia•The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals•The United States Supreme Court•American Association for Justice•Opioid Justice Team•Trial Lawyers Care•West Virginia Association for Justice

Personal Injury Lawyer in Hurricane

Personal Injury Guidance

Comprehensive Personal Injury Guide for Hurricane Residents

If you were injured in Hurricane, West Virginia, understanding your legal options can feel overwhelming. This guide explains the basic steps to protect your rights after an accident caused by another party’s negligence, outlines common types of injuries we handle, and describes how local laws and deadlines may affect your case. Stephen New & Associates serves clients across Putnam County and Beckley, and our goal in this guide is to provide clear, practical information so you can make informed decisions about next steps, documentation, and when to seek legal representation to pursue recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The aftermath of a serious accident often involves medical treatment, insurance claims, and difficult conversations about fault. This section lays out what you should do immediately after an incident: obtain medical care, collect evidence such as photos and witness names, report the incident to the appropriate authorities, and preserve records of expenses and communications. Knowing the timeline for legal claims in West Virginia and how to organize your documentation can strengthen your position whether you pursue settlement negotiations or formal litigation. We aim to empower local residents with practical steps while explaining how a law firm can assist in complex negotiations and court filings.

How a Personal Injury Claim Can Improve Outcomes

A properly managed personal injury claim can help injured individuals recover compensation for medical treatment, lost income, ongoing care needs, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering. Effective handling of a claim includes gathering medical records, reconstructing events, negotiating with insurance carriers, and preparing persuasive documentation to support damages. For many families, resolving a claim brings financial relief and a clearer path to rehabilitation. In West Virginia, procedural rules and deadlines can impact recoveries, so understanding what evidence matters and how to present it increases the likelihood of a favorable resolution while reducing stress during recovery.

Stephen New & Associates Serving Hurricane and Putnam County

Stephen New & Associates is a personal injury law practice serving Hurricane, Putnam County, Beckley, and surrounding West Virginia communities. Our attorneys handle a wide range of injury claims, from motor vehicle collisions and workplace incidents to medical negligence and product liability matters. We focus on clear communication, thorough investigation, and zealous representation at every stage of a claim. Clients receive assistance with obtaining medical records, working with vendors for accident reconstruction when needed, and communicating with insurers so families can concentrate on recovery while the firm pursues fair compensation.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims in Hurricane

A personal injury claim arises when one party’s careless or wrongful conduct causes harm to another person. In West Virginia, proving a claim typically involves showing that the at-fault party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused damages as a direct result. Common examples include car and truck crashes, slips and falls, workplace incidents, and medical incidents involving negligence. Each case has unique factual and legal issues, such as comparative fault, insurance policy limits, and statute of limitations, all of which can shape the strategy for seeking recovery and the likely outcomes for clients seeking compensation.

Recovering losses through a personal injury claim often requires gathering medical records, expert opinions, witness statements, and other evidence that link the defendant’s conduct to the injury and resulting losses. Insurance companies will evaluate claims through their own adjusters, and negotiating a fair settlement often depends on persuasive documentation and realistic damage calculations. When a settlement is not reachable, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to preserve legal rights and seek a court determination. Understanding these phases helps injured persons make informed choices about when to accept an offer and when to pursue further action.

Need More Information?

Key Terms and Glossary for Personal Injury Matters

Negligence

Negligence is the legal concept used to describe conduct that falls below the standard of care a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances and that causes harm to another person. To establish negligence in a personal injury case, a claimant must show that the at-fault party owed a duty, breached that duty through carelessness or failure to act, and that the breach directly caused measurable damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, or physical and emotional harm. Courts evaluate the surrounding facts, witness testimony, and objective evidence to determine whether negligence exists and to allocate responsibility.

Damages

Damages refers to the monetary compensation a person may recover for losses resulting from an injury. These losses can include medical bills, future medical care, lost income, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering or emotional distress. Calculating damages often requires medical records, bills, expert assessments of future needs, and documentation of lost time at work. The goal in a claim is to present a comprehensive record that clearly links the defendant’s actions to the claimant’s financial and non-financial losses so that a fair recovery can be sought through settlement or court action.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is the legal deadline by which a personal injury lawsuit must be filed in court. In West Virginia, this time limit varies depending on the type of claim, but missing the deadline can result in the loss of the right to have a judge or jury decide the case. Knowing the applicable deadline is important early on, because even if negotiations are ongoing, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to preserve legal claims. Prompt consultation and timely action help ensure rights are protected while evidence and witness recollections remain available.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a legal rule used to divide responsibility when more than one party contributed to an accident or injury. Under this approach, a court or jury assigns a percentage of fault to each party, which reduces any award accordingly. For example, if a claimant is found partially responsible for their own injuries, their recovery will be reduced by their percentage share of fault. Understanding how comparative fault applies in a given case is important because it affects settlement value and legal strategy when negotiating with insurers or preparing for trial.

PRO TIPS

Preserve Evidence Immediately

After an incident, preserving evidence promptly increases the likelihood of proving your claim; take clear photographs of injuries, vehicle damage, and the scene, gather contact details for witnesses, and keep all medical and billing records. Documenting symptoms and treatment notes, including dates and providers, helps create a complete medical timeline that supports claims for both current and future care needs. Keeping a journal of pain levels, activity limitations, and the impact on daily life can be useful when explaining non-economic losses during settlement discussions or in court.

Communicate Carefully with Insurers

Insurance adjusters may request recorded statements or quick settlements, but avoiding detailed conversations until you understand the full extent of your injuries helps prevent undervalued resolutions; refer calls to your legal representative if you have one. Share necessary factual information like contact details and a basic description of the incident, but be cautious about admitting fault or downplaying symptoms that may later be important. Keeping written records of all communications with insurers, including dates and the names of representatives, ensures a clear audit trail that can support negotiations or litigation.

Seek Medical Care Without Delay

Obtaining prompt medical attention not only supports your health and recovery but also establishes a documented link between the incident and your injuries, which is essential for a strong claim. Follow recommended treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and retain copies of all diagnostic tests and bills to build a clear medical record. If you experience new or worsening symptoms, notify your healthcare provider and document those changes so the progression of care and its necessity are recorded for insurers or a court.

Comparing Legal Approaches for Injury Claims

When Full Representation Makes a Difference:

Complex Liability or Severe Injuries

Comprehensive legal representation is often warranted when multiple parties may share liability or when injuries are catastrophic and require long-term care planning; these situations involve complicated legal and factual issues that benefit from thorough investigation and strategy. Medical experts, accident reconstruction, and detailed future cost analyses are commonly necessary to accurately value a claim and present persuasive evidence to insurers or a court. Experienced legal counsel can coordinate these elements while protecting procedural rights, preserving important deadlines, and advocating for compensation that considers both current and future needs.

Disputed Fault and Insurance Litigation

When fault is contested or insurance carriers deny liability, sustained advocacy and litigation readiness can be essential to securing fair compensation, because insurers may refuse reasonable offers without the prospect of a lawsuit. Filing pleadings, conducting discovery, and preparing for trial involve procedural rules and timelines that require legal knowledge to navigate effectively. A comprehensive approach helps ensure that important evidence is preserved, depositions are properly taken, and the client’s rights are maintained throughout litigation and settlement negotiations.

When a Limited Legal Approach May Work:

Minor Injuries with Clear Liability

A more limited legal approach may be appropriate when liability is clear, injuries are minor, and medical costs are relatively low, allowing for direct negotiation with an insurance adjuster. In these cases, the parties often reach a fair settlement quickly without the need for extensive investigation or litigation, provided the claimant preserves medical records and documents losses. Still, understanding the legal framework and keeping thorough documentation can improve settlement outcomes and help avoid accepting offers that do not fully cover recovery needs.

Quick Insurance Resolution Available

When an insurer offers a prompt, reasonable settlement that aligns with documented medical bills and lost income, a limited approach focused on negotiation and release preparation can resolve matters efficiently without prolonged litigation. Clients should carefully evaluate any settlement against future medical needs and consult with counsel when uncertainties exist to avoid waiving important rights inadvertently. Even in straightforward matters, having advice about the terms of a release can prevent unexpected limitations on future claims related to the same incident.

Common Circumstances That Lead to Personal Injury Claims

Motor Vehicle Collisions

Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian collisions in Hurricane often result from distracted driving, impaired operation, or unsafe road conditions, producing injuries that range from minor to life altering and requiring medical treatment. These incidents typically involve insurance investigations, potential police reports, and a need to document both property damage and personal injuries to support recovery claims.

Workplace and Construction Injuries

Accidents at construction sites or other workplaces may cause severe trauma and involve overlapping systems such as workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims, demanding careful handling of both medical and legal timelines. Identifying responsible parties and coordinating claims helps injured workers pursue appropriate benefits while preserving rights to additional compensation from negligent third parties when applicable.

Medical and Product-Related Injuries

Claims arising from medical care or defective products often require review of detailed records and expert analysis to show how the error or design issue led to harm, particularly when injuries are severe or long-term. Gathering clinical documentation and product histories early strengthens the ability to evaluate potential claims and pursue responsible parties effectively.

Personal Injury Representation for Hurricane, WV Residents

Why Putnam County Residents Choose Stephen New & Associates

Stephen New & Associates provides dedicated personal injury representation to Hurricane and surrounding communities with a focus on clear communication and practical results. We assist clients by investigating incidents, collecting medical and accident evidence, negotiating with insurance carriers, and preparing claims for court when necessary. Our approach centers on understanding each client’s individual needs and building a case that seeks fair recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care, while keeping clients informed throughout the process so they can focus on recovery.

Local knowledge of West Virginia law and courtroom procedures helps when pursuing claims in Putnam County and regional jurisdictions, and we work to preserve deadlines and protect your legal rights. From initial consultations to resolution, our team helps clients evaluate settlement offers against long-term care needs and future costs. We also coordinate with medical providers and vocational professionals when necessary to present a thorough picture of damages and to pursue compensation that reflects both current losses and projected future needs.

Contact Our Hurricane Office to Discuss Your Claim

People Also Search For

personal injury lawyer Hurricane WV

Hurricane West Virginia injury attorney

car accident lawyer Hurricane WV

truck accident attorney Putnam County

personal injury claims West Virginia

medical malpractice attorney Hurricane

wrongful death lawyer Putnam County

Stephen New & Associates Hurricane

Related Services

FAQS

What should I do immediately after a personal injury accident in Hurricane?

Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor, because prompt treatment supports your health and creates a documented record linking the incident to your injuries. Obtain necessary emergency care, follow up with your primary provider, and keep copies of all medical records, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, and billing statements. Document the scene with photos, collect witness contact information, and report the incident to the appropriate authorities so there is an official record. Preserving physical evidence, such as damaged property or clothing, can also be critical, as can maintaining a contemporaneous journal about symptoms and treatment. After addressing medical needs, notify your insurance company and keep careful notes of all communications with insurers, but be cautious about providing recorded statements without first consulting a legal adviser. Contacting a personal injury law firm early can help protect your rights, preserve evidence, and manage communications with insurers to avoid inadvertently harming your claim. Timely legal guidance ensures you meet applicable deadlines and helps evaluate settlement offers against your documented medical needs and future recovery prospects.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in West Virginia?

West Virginia law sets deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits, and these statutes of limitations vary depending on the type of claim; in many personal injury cases, the deadline is two years from the date of injury, but exceptions and different timelines can apply. Because missing the statute of limitations may bar recovery forever, it is important to determine the specific deadline that applies to your case as soon as possible. Certain situations, such as claims against government entities or latent injury claims, may have shorter or unique filing windows. Early consultation with a lawyer helps ensure claims are preserved by timely filing when necessary and allows for investigation while evidence remains available. Even if you are engaged in settlement discussions, filing a lawsuit before the deadline can preserve legal rights and strengthen negotiating position. A legal professional can review the facts of your situation, explain any exceptions that might extend or shorten the limitation period, and advise on the best course of action given the timeline.

Will my case go to trial or can it be settled with the insurance company?

Many personal injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations with insurance carriers without going to trial, particularly when liability is clear and damages are well documented. Insurers often prefer to settle rather than incur the time and expense of litigation, and skilled negotiation based on strong medical records and credible damage calculations can produce satisfactory outcomes. However, settlements should be evaluated carefully to ensure they cover future needs, not just immediate bills. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit and taking the case to trial may be necessary to seek appropriate compensation. Preparing for trial involves discovery, depositions, and potentially expert testimony, all of which aim to build a persuasive record for a judge or jury. A willingness to pursue litigation when needed can sometimes motivate insurers to improve settlement offers, while courtroom proceedings provide an avenue for formal resolution when negotiations fail.

How are medical bills and future care calculated in a personal injury claim?

Medical bills and the cost of future care are calculated using documented expenses, treatment recommendations, and expert opinions where necessary to estimate ongoing needs. Current medical bills form the foundation of economic damages, while anticipated future care is assessed through medical prognosis, rehabilitation plans, and cost estimates from healthcare providers or vocational experts. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering are evaluated based on the severity and duration of injury, treatment intensity, and the impact on daily activities and quality of life. Accurate calculation requires assembling complete medical records, invoices, and testimony that links treatment to the incident. When necessary, evaluations by medical professionals or life-care planners help quantify long-term needs and costs. Presenting a clear and organized record of past and future expenses strengthens negotiation positions with insurers and supports claims presented at trial if litigation becomes necessary.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

If you were partially at fault for an accident, West Virginia applies a comparative fault system that reduces recovery in proportion to your share of responsibility. For example, if a claimant is assigned a portion of fault by a judge or jury, any award or settlement amount will be diminished by that percentage, which makes accurate fact presentation and witness evidence critical in limiting any assigned fault. Understanding the allocation of responsibility early helps shape negotiation strategies. Even when partial fault exists, you may still recover compensation for the portions of damages caused by other parties, so it is important to document the facts and preserve evidence that supports your version of events. A legal review can assist with assessing how comparative fault might apply to your case, developing tactics to minimize your assigned share, and negotiating with insurers who might attempt to overstate your responsibility to lower payouts.

How do I document my injuries and losses effectively?

Document injuries and losses by retaining all medical records, imaging, prescriptions, and bills related to your treatment, and keep a log of appointments, symptoms, and any limitations on daily activities. Photographs of injuries, the accident scene, and property damage taken soon after the incident are valuable, as are witness contact information and official reports such as police or incident reports. Compile pay stubs, employment records, and statements showing lost income or changes in earning capacity to support claims for economic losses. Organizing these materials into a chronological file and maintaining contemporaneous notes about pain levels, medication effects, and how injuries affect family life strengthens your claim when negotiating with insurers or presenting evidence in court. Clear, consistent documentation makes it easier to demonstrate the connection between the incident, medical care, and resulting losses, improving credibility with adjusters, mediators, and judges.

What types of damages can I recover in a personal injury case?

Damages in a personal injury case can include economic losses such as past and future medical bills, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and property damage, all of which are supported by receipts, invoices, and expert testimony when necessary. Non-economic damages, sometimes called general damages, compensate for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress, and these are assessed based on the injury’s severity, duration, and impact on personal and family life. In certain cases, punitive damages may be available to punish particularly reckless behavior, though they are awarded in limited circumstances. Proving damages requires assembling medical documentation, employment records, expert assessments, and personal accounts that show how injuries have affected an individual’s life. A carefully prepared claim will quantify both immediate and future costs and present credible narratives that support non-economic losses, helping juries or insurers understand the full scope of harm caused by the incident.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?

Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no upfront charge and fees are paid as a percentage of any recovery obtained through settlement or trial, which allows clients to pursue claims without significant initial expense. Clients should discuss fee percentages, costs advanced by the firm, and how those costs are handled if there is no recovery so there are no surprises. Transparent communication about fees and expenses helps clients make informed decisions about legal representation. Even when working on contingency, clients may be responsible for certain expenses like medical record retrieval, expert fees, and filing costs that the firm advances and later deducts from recovery; details of these arrangements should be clearly outlined in the fee agreement. Understanding the financial arrangement in advance enables individuals to evaluate the value of representation relative to the complexity and potential recovery in their case.

Can I still make a claim if the at-fault party has little or no insurance?

If the at-fault party has little or no insurance, there are still potential avenues for recovery depending on the circumstances, such as uninsured motorist coverage on your own policy, claims against other responsible parties, or pursuing personal assets through litigation if available. Reviewing your own insurance policies early is important to determine coverage and to promptly notify your carrier if a claim may trigger uninsured motorist benefits. Your insurer can explain claim steps and coverage limits that may apply to compensate for injuries when another party lacks adequate insurance. Legal counsel can also help evaluate whether other parties share responsibility, including employers, property owners, or product manufacturers, and whether there are collectible assets or insurance policies to pursue. Even in underinsured situations, pursuing all available sources of compensation and negotiating with insurers can yield recoveries that cover medical costs and other losses, depending on policy terms and evidence of liability.

How long will it take to resolve my personal injury claim?

The timeline to resolve a personal injury claim varies widely based on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, the willingness of insurers to negotiate, and whether a lawsuit is necessary. Some straightforward claims resolve in a few months, while more complex matters requiring expert testimony, litigation, or trial may take a year or longer to reach final resolution. The need to document future medical needs and vocational impacts can extend the timeline as parties seek reliable cost estimates and prognosis information. Clients should be prepared for a process that balances timely negotiation with ensuring full and fair compensation for both present and future losses. Regular communication with your legal representative helps set realistic expectations about timing and progress, and efforts to cooperate with medical providers, promptly respond to information requests, and preserve evidence can help move the matter forward more efficiently.