Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily have to go to court to receive financial restitution after being injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Here’s what you need to know about pursuing compensation without litigation.
Get Medical Help Right Away
Don’t wait to get medical help after your accident, even if you feel like your injuries are minor. The more evidence you have to illustrate the impact of the accident, the easier it will be to negotiate with the other party’s insurance company for a fair settlement.
Thoroughly Document Your Injuries
There will be a waiting period between the accident and the start of settlement negotiations. Make sure you thoroughly document your injuries and symptoms during this time. Write down how you’re feeling in a journal, how much pain you’re experiencing, and how your day-to-day activities are limited by the injury. Avoid posting about the accident on social media.
When the time comes to negotiate compensation, this will make it easier for you to illustrate the true impact of the suffering you incurred as a result of the accident.
Document All Accident-Related Expenses
Keep records of all expenses you incur as a result of the accident, including hospital bills, doctor copays, and medication costs. These are considered economic damages and your final settlement should at the very minimum be the total amount of your accident-related expenses.
File an Insurance Claim
You should file a claim with the other party’s insurance company and/or your own, depending on what type of coverages you have. For example, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and are involved in a car accident, you may be able to file a claim for compensation from both the other driver’s insurance provider and your own insurance company if your damages exceed their policy limits.
Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer
More often than not, the first settlement offer made to you by the insurance company will be much lower than the actual cost of damages you incurred. Unless an attorney directs you to accept the first offer, it’s a good idea to submit a counteroffer with evidence that supports why the initial settlement offer is inadequate.
Work with an Experienced Accident Lawyer
Many people mistakenly believe that they only need to work with an accident attorney if they plan to file a lawsuit. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer is also an excellent asset to have during settlement negotiations with your insurance company. Your lawyer can help act as a buffer between you and your insurance company and ensure they aren’t acting in bad faith.
Get help obtaining the compensation you deserve after an accident, even if you are hesitant to file a lawsuit, from Mazow | McCullough, PC. Call now for your consultation at (855) 693-9084.
