How to Maximize Your Settlement After an Accident

An automobile accident can be a traumatic experience, and dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, particularly when filing a claim, can be confusing and overwhelming. Your regular daily needs and monthly expenses do not stop because you sustained injuries in an accident. You might also incur additional costs, making it tempting to accept the first settlement offer you receive. However, many people are unaware that doing so could mean you inadvertently undervalue your case and accept a smaller settlement than you deserve. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you get the full compensation you’re entitled to for your injuries and damages by maximizing your car accident claim.  

Even though no one can undo the emotional and physical damages caused by a car accident, taking the right steps can help you maximize your claim and obtain the compensation you deserve.  

What factors are considered in determining the value of a car accident claim?  

After a car accident, there are three main factors that determine the value of a car accident claim. These factors include liability, damages, and insurance coverage:   

1. Liability: In an accident, liability indicates who is at fault. It is important to demonstrate the liability of the other party to strengthen your claim. In addition, this is why it is crucial to collect all evidence and witness statements from the accident scene. Collecting evidence also requires the acquisition of a police report. To maximize the value of your car accident claim, it is always advised to hire a qualified car accident attorney to help you gather and investigate all the evidence in a timely manner, as well as witness statements and a copy of the car accident. 
2. Damages: Generally, damages refer to any costs or expenses incurred because of the car accident or injuries sustained during the accident. As a result of the car accident, you may suffer damage to your vehicle and/or material losses, medical expenses, past or future wage loss, and painful rehabilitation. You may be entitled to fair compensation if you were forced to leave a high-paying job due to an accident, or if your injuries require long-term medical treatment or physical therapy.
3. Insurance coverage: When you file a legal claim, you can only recover the maximum amount available to the insurance carriers representing the parties involved at the time of the accident. 

When all these factors are handled correctly, you will receive the maximum compensation available for your injuries and losses. This is why it’s imperative to have an experienced law firm by your side after a car accident.  

So, what steps can you take to help maximize your claim? 

Steps you can take to help maximize your claim: 

Step 1: Immediately contact the police and seek medical attention 

The first step after a car accident is to contact the police and seek medical attention, regardless of whether you feel fine. Police will prepare an accident report which will be invaluable evidence when filing a claim. Getting medical attention is essential, not only for your health but also for your claim. Providing evidence of your injuries may assist you in proving that you are entitled to compensation. 

Step 2: Gather and document the evidence 

To maximize the value of your car accident claim, collecting evidence is essential. Make sure you take photos and videos of the scene, including any damage to your vehicle and any injuries that you may have sustained. In addition, obtain the names and telephone numbers of any witnesses who may have been present during the incident. The testimony of witnesses such as these may be able to support your claim and provide an accurate account of what happened. 

Step 3: Make sure you keep track of your expenses 

Take note of every expense related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. You can use these expenses to prove you’re entitled to compensation. Additionally, you should request a police report as soon as possible. A police report provides an important summary of your accident and may even identify the party at fault, which is essential to maximizing the value of your claim. 

 Step 4: Make sure you do not accept a settlement too early 

It is possible that insurance companies will offer you a settlement shortly after the accident. Be careful not to accept a settlement too quickly, since it may not be sufficient to cover all of your expenses. You should wait until you completely understand your injuries and expenses before accepting a settlement. 

Step 5: Take a break from social media.  

If you are involved in a personal injury case, your social media activity could be used against you. Anything, you post, or comment can be used against you by the opposing party. 

Step 6: Don’t miss any medical appointments 

Make sure you do not miss any scheduled appointments with your physician. This is an essential component of your claim. Insurance companies may argue that you have not suffered a serious injury if you fail to keep your medical appointments. 

Step 7: Don’t rush 

It will take a bit of patience to discover the full scope of your damages after a thorough investigation, so being patient will help you maximize your settlement. If the insurance policy of the at-fault party does not adequately cover the losses you suffered, we will assist you in exploring other options for maximizing your compensation, including tapping into your own insurance policy. 

Step 8: Consider hiring an experienced personal injury attorney 

Hiring a personal injury attorney is key to maximizing your car accident claim. An experienced attorney can negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand your legal rights and options.  

The Ward Law Group can help you maximize your accident claim 

Our team of specialized car accident lawyers in Florida and in New York understands your desire to optimize your claim after an accident. During our consultation, we will inform you of all the steps we will help you take to maximize your claim.  

For example, our team will take care of evidence collection and will investigate your case thoroughly. We will also make sure to include every damage you should recover in your compensation request. Finally, we manage settlement negotiations and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.  

Our team will also obtain a copy of your accident report, a critical part of the evidence which provides many valuable details that help prove the at-fault parties’ liability. 

Our expert personal injury attorneys will read and review all pertinent evidence, such as your medical records, which is how the extent of your injuries and decisions made by medical professionals. In addition, we will consult with experts who can determine the accident’s cause or analyze your injuries’ impact on your future earning capacity. 

The Ward Law Group is committed to providing the highest level of customer service.  

Our goal is to ensure that every detail of the legal process is covered and that you are kept informed at all times. By doing so, you will be able to focus on recovering from your injuries and getting your life back on track. 

Do you want to know the value of your car accident case TODAY?