Sustaining injuries in an accident that resulted from someone’s negligence may be a life-altering experience. From expensive medical bills to lost income, the aftermath is overwhelming, and the last thing you need is to receive less than your due. Ideally, settling a personal injury settlement is not only about getting the money that is deserved but also getting the ability to put oneself in the best recovery position. One needs a strategy to walk off the table with the best deal.
Here’s how to go through the settlement like a pro:
Know When to Involve an Attorney
Some minor personal injury claims can be settled without legal representation, but more complex cases can generally benefit from the advice of an experienced attorney.
For example, if you’re in Cincinnati, you may want an attorney located in the area, where you can find legal counsel to help with expansive state-based laws and insurers.
A personal injury lawyer, such as those from Monge & Associates, personal injury lawyers in Cincinnati, can determine if you have a claim, talk to the insurance company, and make sure you don’t get short-changed when they offer a settlement.
With professional representation, insurance companies are also more likely to take your claim seriously and act fairly.
Understanding the Value of Your Claim
It’s very important to know the real value of your personal injury claim before you even begin to negotiate. This is not simply a matter of adding up your current medical costs.
You will also want to take into account future medical care, lost wages, lost earning capacity, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
Insurance providers frequently attempt to underestimate the value of your claim, only looking at economic damages.
Gather Strong Evidence
The power of your evidence has a dramatic effect on the success of your negotiations.
Medical records, photographs of the scene of the accident and your injuries, witness accounts, and police reports are all essential evidence to back up your case.
Also, keeping a detailed record of your pain, suffering, and recovery process will solidify the severity of your injuries. The more evidence you have, the less likely the insurance company will deny or undervalue your case.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
One of the most common errors accident victims make is settling for the first offer.
Insurance providers initially submit lowball offers, hoping to get them accepted quickly to save time and trouble. Don’t let the temptation to accept early fool you.
Politely decline to accept the first offer and requested a written statement of how they decided on that amount.
Be Patient but Persistent
Settling a personal injury case takes time if the injuries are serious or liability is in question. While patience is good, persistence is also essential; so you should follow up regularly and maintain a professional attitude. Also, don’t appear aggressive but be firm in achieving a fair result. In case of a stalemate, a good option is to seek mediation or to have an attorney draft a formal letter of demand.
Takeaway
Settlement negotiations on a personal injury case don’t have to be a fight. You can successfully negotiate yourself and get the benefits you deserve if you prepare properly and are persistent. Don’t undervalue the power of knowledge and negotiation—your recovery and future depend on it.
ALSO READ: What You Should Know About Medical Bills and Personal Injury Claims
