Now that you have retired from your job and have plenty of free time to pursue the things you love, you are looking forward to the days ahead. Unfortunately, having an accident during your retirement can alter your plans and perhaps your life forever. Whether it’s a car accident, slipping and falling, or being injured by a defective product, it’s important to remember you have options for gaining compensation for your injuries. To ensure you receive the compensation you may deserve after being injured following retirement, take these steps immediately.

Receive Medical Treatment

First and foremost, always seek medical treatment after an accident, even if you are not sure you are seriously injured. Whether you were in a car wreck or slipped and fell in a store or parking lot, injuries such as whiplash, concussions, and back injuries may not display symptoms until hours or days later. By getting medical treatment immediately, you can protect your health and have your injuries documented.

Speak to an Attorney

While a lawsuit was not high on your list following retirement, it may be now after your accident. Since it is likely the negligence and carelessness of others led to your accident, always speak to a personal injury attorney within a few days at the most after your accident. By doing so, you can discuss the accident in detail, learn of your various options, and plan a course of action.

Don’t Take the Quick Settlement

As a retiree, insurance companies will assume you are eager to get some quick money following your accident. Because of this, they will likely contact you rather quickly and offer you a nominal amount of money to settle the case. While you may be tempted to do so, don’t accept their offer. Most of the time, the money offered initially by insurance companies will not compensate you for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Say as Little as Possible About the Accident

Finally, say as little as possible about your accident until you have spoken to an attorney. One of the best things you can do is avoid talking about your accident on social media, since you may post pictures and comments that could be used against you by a defendant’s lawyer and their insurance company.

By keeping your wits about you and seeking out the advice of an attorney you know and trust, you can gain the compensation you deserve and continue to enjoy your retirement.

This article is from Brooke Chaplan, a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.