A car accident can be a traumatic and potentially life-altering experience. If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you will often be eligible for a payout. However, there are times when receiving this payout is easier said than done. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that you’re not forgotten during the restitution process. Here are a few ways to make sure you get what you deserve.
Submit Additional Evidence
Immediately after an accident, if you are physically capable, you should collect as much evidence as possible. No matter how well you document the accident, though, those investigating the accident may overlook some of this evidence when they create their report. If this is causing your payout to be questioned or delayed, it’s important to submit all the evidence that you have to give yourself the best chance of having a favorable outcome.
Hire An Attorney
In general, insurance companies don’t like providing the payouts that victims are due. Depending on which insurance company was protecting the other driver, you may experience significant delays in receiving the money you’re owed. Since it can be difficult to try and go against an insurance company yourself, it’s a good idea to hire a personal injury attorney to help argue your case to the insurance company and in court if necessary.
Watch Your Actions
One of the largest sums you’ll likely receive as part of your payout relates to the amount given for pain and suffering. Since this term can be used subjectively, it’s important to limit your physical activity as much as possible so that your abilities can’t be used against you. It would be a shame to have a settlement negated because someone saw you doing an activity that they didn’t think you would be able to do given the extent of your injuries.
Stay Patient
One of the hardest but most important things to do while you await a payout is to stay patient. Becoming upset and speaking harshly with the involved parties will only reduce the likelihood that you’ll ever see a payout. That’s not to say that your situation is unimportant or that you aren’t suffering. Instead, staying patient simply helps to satisfy the other parties so that you give yourself the best chance of victory.
When it comes to settlements, insurance companies tend to have the element of time on their side. Their hope is that they’ll be able to wait long enough to pay that you’ll eventually drop the matter so they won’t have to do anything else. Only by remaining persistent yet respectful will you be able to secure a favorable outcome for yourself.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.
