From losing your ability to make a living to having to contend with large unexpected financial bills, accidents are the last thing you would wish on yourself. But trying to represent yourself in a case can be even more devastating –a surefire ticket to failure if you don’t have expert legal help.
However, when (and if) they do happen, you can file a claim and get compensated for your losses with the help of experts, such as the Law Offices of Mickey Fine. If you have been injured due to the actions of another person, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you will receive will be determined by various things. Read on for five tips to ensure you get the highest settlement amount.
#1 - Gather Evidence
The compensation you will be awarded will depend on the extent of your injuries and losses. Here, the court will want to see evidence of your losses. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep any evidence that will support your claim. These include things like hospital bill invoices, car repair bills, income stubs, and so on. Your evidence will help the court decide how much would be fair compensation to award you for your physical injuries and financial losses.
#2 - Get Medical Care
Even if you do not seem injured, going for a medical check as soon as possible is important. You may look and feel fine outside, but your internal organs could have been injured. Therefore, go for a full body medical check after the accident.
A comprehensive medical check can reveal previously undetected injuries that can become serious over time and impact your well-being. You want these injuries uncovered for treatment and to help you determine a fair settlement. Get your medical check done by an approved healthcare provider as soon as possible, so you won’t need to deal with physical ills for the long term.
#3 - Hire an Attorney
Working with a personal injury lawyer can save you a lot of time and help you avoid mistakes that can reduce your compensation. An experienced attorney will investigate your case and advise you whether to accept the offer from the insurance company or proceed to trial. From experience and knowledge of the law, the attorney will know how much you are entitled to based on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the ensuing losses.
Hiring a lawyer is your best bet for winning your case's maximum personal injury settlement. Ideally, you should hire an attorney specialized in the injury you have suffered. For example, hire a truck accident lawyer if you’ve been hit by a truck.
#4 - Value Your Claim Fully
When you file a claim, you want it to be fair. This means it should ease the financial burden you had to shoulder due to the accident. In California, there is no limit to the amount of compensation a victim can be awarded. Your settlement will depend on the extent of your injuries and financial losses.
When valuing your claim, consider both the immediate and long-term financial implications of the accident. For example, you may already have hospital bills, but what about the cost of long-term therapy or care? What if you cannot do your job anymore to earn a living? Such financial implications of the accident should also be considered when valuing your claim.
#5 - Don’t Settle Quickly
The insurance company may contact you after the accident to offer a settlement. However, refrain from taking the bait. That’s because if a company is too quick to settle, chances are, it’s lowballing you.
Before accepting a settlement, consult with an attorney. Find out how much other people with similar personal injury cases have won in the past. Also, find out how long the settlement will take. A competent attorney will know the tricks that insurance companies use to rope in victims and settle low amounts. The lawyer will build your case to ensure you get the maximum compensation.
Conclusion
Working with a qualified personal injury lawyer will significantly increase your chances of winning a fair settlement after an accident. The attorney will help you at each stage of pursuing your claim. He will also advise you on the do’s and don’ts to ensure you get the maximum settlement.
