Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially regarding getting your fair compensation. Whether you’re trying to cover up for lost wages, emotional stress, or medical bills, you must understand how to make the most of your settlement.
In most cases, insurance companies target the lowest possible payouts, so it is necessary to take the necessary records and build a solid case. Continue reading to understand how to obtain the settlement you deserve.
1. Get Medical Treatment
Even when you feel okay after being involved in a car accident, seek medical care. While you may seem unharmed at first, consider seeing medical professionals and getting all their recommended treatments.
During the settlement process, you’ll need to prove your damages. This means that you must confirm the extent of your injuries and the amount of medical care you got. Depending on the extent of the injuries, you may need a primary care physician, physical therapist, or a car accident chiropractor.
2. Document Everything
Due to the chaos that follows an accident, you may easily forget crucial details that may be helpful in your case. Be sure to document everything in order to maximize your settlement. This is one of the first things to do after an accident. Ensure to collect as much information about the case as possible.
Take photos of the accident scene from all angles, recording the skid marks, traffic signs, and vehicle damage. Note down the weather conditions, date, time, and any other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
3. Do Not Accept a Rushed Offer
Most insurance companies will pressure you to accept a low-ball offer after the accident. These companies exploit the fact that you may be in dire need at the moment. They may reach you shortly after the accident, promising a fast resolution.
However, do not accept these kinds of offers. Insurance companies mainly prioritize profit, so their initial offer will be way lower than your claim’s actual value. These offers may not cover your medical expenses or damages.
4. Work With an Experienced Attorney
Filing and going through with a car accident claim can be tricky. That is why you should consider hiring an experienced car accident attorney to guide you through the process. Legal experts are essential because they offer guidance and collect evidence to build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Since insurance companies usually have skilled negotiators, your attorney will know how to fight back to ensure you get a fair settlement. If negotiations do not lead to a settlement, your attorney represents you in court during the resulting trial.
5. File Your Case Quickly
The timing is essential when filing a car accident claim. Pushing forward with your case quickly helps you stay in line with important deadlines like the statute of limitations. In most cases, you’ll have two years from the accident date to file your claim.
Besides this deadline, waiting for long before filing a claim can weaken your case. Evidence usually becomes less solid as time passes, and witnesses may no longer be available. If insurers contest liability, filing your case on time helps to maximize your settlement.
6. Be Wary of Insurers
Insurance providers may talk to you after an accident. While you should fully cooperate with your insurers, be careful when talking to the other drivers’. Remember that they always look for ways to beat down their settlements.
They may use different strategies to get you to say something that harms your case. If possible, do not speak to them; allow your attorney to do the job for you. In addition, avoid sharing posts on social media, as they might hurt your case.
Endnote
Getting a fair settlement from your car accident claim allows you to offset your medical bills and recover your damages. To help your case, get proper medical help, document the details, avoid accepting rushed settlements, and work with an experienced attorney. File your case quickly and be careful when dealing with insurance providers.
