Whether due to a slip-and-fall accident, dog attack, motor vehicle crash or something else, injuries happen at an alarming rate in the U.S. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, of the roughly 130 million emergency room visits each year, about 35 million stem from an injury rather than an illness.

If someone’s intentional, reckless or negligent conduct caused your injury, you may be able to pursue financial compensation to help you manage your injury and move on with your life. Still, you should have a strategy for talking with an attorney about your claim.

Be open and honest

Virtually everything you tell your attorney is confidential. Therefore, to ensure your lawyer knows all aspects about your claim, you must be as open and honest as possible. Even if you think facts may harm your case or make you look bad, it is a good idea to tell your lawyer about them.

Try to stay calm

If you suffered a painful or life-altering injury in a stressful accident, you may find it difficult to maintain your composure. Still, if you do not stay calm, you may forget to tell your attorney important details. You may also not hear or misunderstand what your lawyer says.

Ask questions

The legal system can be incredibly complex and full of terms and processes you may not comprehend. Consequently, you should ask questions to better understand your situation. If you have questions after meeting with your lawyer, jot them down and follow up later.

Ultimately, your lawyer has a duty to look out for your interests. By doing your part to understand your rights, responsibilities and options, you may boost your chances of receiving the financial compensation you deserve.