After you have been injured in a car crash or other accident, you are facing numerous injuries and plenty of physical and emotional pain. In addition, you are also starting to deal with the many medical bills coming your way. Since you will be unable to work for weeks or longer, lost income is now also an issue. To make sure you see yourself through your court case successfully and come away with the compensation you need and deserve, here are some steps you should take along the way.
Don’t Deal with Insurance Companies on Your Own
Once you are injured and file your claim, expect to hear from insurance companies. However, don’t believe everything they might tell you. For example, if they offer you a quick settlement, don’t jump at the opportunity. Unfortunately, most quick settlement offers are for very low amounts that won’t cover your lost income and medical bills. Instead, let your attorney negotiate an out-of-court settlement for far more money.
Gather Evidence
Before and after you hire a personal injury lawyer, work to gather as much evidence as possible to strengthen your case. From witness statements to photos of the accident scene, having as much evidence as possible will give you a much greater chance of winning your case.
Seek Medical Treatment
Whether you were injured while driving your car, walking through a snowy parking lot, or were bitten by a person’s dog at a park, never delay seeking medical treatment for your injuries. Along with putting your own health at risk, any delays will make it harder to win your case. Since insurance companies will do anything to avoid paying out injury claims, a delay in getting medical treatment will let an insurer say you suffered few if any substantial injuries in your accident, which could derail your court case and find you getting no compensation for your injuries.
Say as Little as Possible
While your case is playing out in court, refrain from saying anything more than necessary regarding your accident. Whether you are speaking to doctors during appointments or even getting on social media at home, do not discuss your accident in great detail with anyone but your attorney. By taking this approach, you can be sure your words will not come back to be used against you by insurance companies or others.
By keeping these tips in mind and following the advice given to you by your lawyer, you increase the odds of emerging from court a winner.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
