Maximize your car accident settlement by approaching the claims process strategically and with the proper legal support. Insurance companies are known for offering lowball settlements that don’t reflect the actual value of your losses. If you're pursuing legal action against an at-fault driver or insurer, working with an experienced car accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing full and fair compensation.
Learn five effective ways to maximize your car crash settlement.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention and Keep All Records
Even if you initially feel okay in the aftermath of the crash, seeking medical attention should be your number-one priority. The sooner you visit your doctor for a medical evaluation, the faster you can begin addressing any underlying injuries. This action also leaves you with valuable evidence to use in your car accident case.
Medical records show the severity of your injuries and tie them directly to the crash. Visiting a doctor shortly after the collision helps minimize doubt about how your injuries originated. You can also clearly point to the value of your case, seeking compensation that more than makes up for the money you spent on medical treatment.
2. Document As Much Evidence As Possible
The more evidence you have, the more likely the insurer will be to offer you an adequate settlement. That’s why it is so important to document evidence soon after the crash, before valuable proof disappears.
If possible, take photos and videos at the accident scene before moving any vehicles. Speak with any witnesses of the crash and gather their contact information. You can ask them to testify about the crash later on.
In some instances, your car accident lawyer can help you reach out to local businesses to see if any security cameras caught the crash. This proof can assist the fault determination and insurance liability process.
3. Know the Value of Your Case
Before you walk into settlement negotiations, have a clear idea of the value of your case. This can help you avoid accepting an insufficient settlement without realizing it.
Your settlement award should make up for the economic damages you incurred from the accident, such as the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Physical damage to your vehicle
In Florida, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can pay for injuries and lost wages, while you may need to seek compensation for physical damage from the other driver’s insurance.
If you are pursuing legal action against the insurance company, you can request non-economic damages, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Emotional distress
Your car accident lawyer can help you calculate the value of all of the damages in your case and determine a minimum figure to aim for.
4. Be Patient During Settlement Negotiations
Settlement negotiations in compensation claims often take some time. You may need to go through a significant amount of back and forth with the insurer until you reach a fair offer. Stay the course and avoid accepting an offer just to be done with the process.
Your attorney can help you maintain a level head and understand when an offer is worth accepting. Until then, know that this process is not quick, but being patient will be worth your while.
5. Work With an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
To maximize your car accident settlement, hiring experienced legal representation is essential. A skilled attorney can apply their knowledge and expertise to strengthen your case and increase your chances of securing the full compensation you deserve.
At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we have compassionately represented personal injury victims in the Tampa community for over thirty years. Call us today at 813-544-7398 or fill out our form for assistance from our car accident lawyers.