Nobody knows when they will find themselves injured in a serious accident. It just happens in a flash of moments and can destroy everyone’s lives involved in it. Millions of Americans every year are harmed in personal injury accidents —from vehicle accidents to medical malpractice, due to the negligence of others, either individuals or a company. To solidify the statement, below are the U.S personal injury cases by numbers;
- In the U.S., personal injury filings surged 97% from the previous year (data of 2020 says that)
- The visits to physician offices for unintentional injuries reached 24.8 million in 2018.
- Due to motor vehicle accidents, there were about 4.5 million medically consulted injury cases in 2019, with estimated costs reaching $463 billion ( National Safety Council)
After conferring the above statistics, it is clear how the personal injury rates increase yearly. Therefore, pursuing a personal injury claim to seek fair compensation for your damages can ease the stress of putting your life back together. Read the blog till the end and learn how to get the deserved personal injury claim!
1. Collect and Preserve The Evidence
To make your personal injury claim successful, ensure to gather strong evidence as, on its basis, the judge will make the final decision. So, it’s essential to preserve as much evidence as possible to strengthen your case.
Most of the strong and admissible evidence is available right on the accident spot. Take pictures, get witness statements, check for camera footage, and keep all of the documents, records, and information about your injuries with you.
2. Immediate Medical Treatment
If you’re not sure how badly you’re hurt after an accident, it’s important to see a doctor. The reports and prescriptions the doctor gives you are proof of your injuries, showing how serious they are, and help in getting a fair personal injury claim.
This paperwork can convince the other side to offer more money to settle. If your doctor suggests treatment, follow it closely to ensure you’re compensated fairly. Waiting too long to get medical help can hurt your case because it gives the other side a reason to doubt your injuries.
3. Don’t Accept The First Offer Instantly
It might appear harsh, but insurance companies are banking on the fact that you’ll settle for less than what you are owed. They rely on your eagerness to receive a quick payout rather than a fair amount. Accepting their first offer often plays into their hands, benefiting them greatly while shortchanging you.
4. Claim by Considering Future Damages in Mind
Personal injury means you have to face the effect of loss in both the short and long term, whether it’s about physical health and mental or financial stability. So, it’s advisable to consider future recovery when negotiating a settlement amount.
In many cases, future damages will comprise the majority of your losses. That’s why it’s important to work with medical professionals to document and include these losses in your claim.
5. Set A Minimum Settlement Figure
It’s important to decide on a minimum settlement cost in your mind while putting together your personal injury claim demand letter. Don’t share it with anyone, especially the insurance adjuster.
When dealing with offers and counter-offers, it helps to have a clear idea of what your bottom line is going to be. If an adjuster points out a fact or evidence that weakens your claim, don’t be afraid to lower your minimum settlement somewhat and vice versa.
6. File Your Case As Soon As Possible
You have a limited time to register a case!! The sooner you start, the sooner it comes to an endpoint. As in the initial time, it’s easier to collect solid evidence whether it is in terms of eyewitnesses, CCTV footage, or any other. Over time, the crucial details might get lost. So, it’s advisable to register your case within a week if possible.
7. Take A Short Break From Social Media
In today’s society, sharing the details of your accidents with your friends, family, or colleagues is normal. But when you are fighting for your fair compensation, staying away from social media for a while is always suggested. Because even a small thing or action of yours can come back to haunt you later.
The representative of the at-fault party will access your social accounts and try to collect any evidence that they can use to serve their own purpose. For instance, you posted birthday celebration pictures of your friend, where you were captured with a smiling face. They used it against you like” See? She looks extremely happy and fine in this photo”. Your case will weaken in just a few seconds and affect your personal injury claim.
Hire An Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
The last and the most valuable tip we can offer you is to “ Hire a Personal injury lawyer.” At each stage of your personal injury claim, a qualified attorney from Accident Defenders will always guide you in the right direction on how to get the maximum and fair compensation. If your case goes to trial, your hired lawyer will present you and your case in the best way. Remember to have patience, as the legal process can take longer time than expected!