If you have been injured in a car accident, you will surely want to make sure that the insurance settlement you receive fully covers your medical expenses, any wages you lost as a result of the accident, and other related expenses. However, this is not always the case. Many times, when you open that settlement offer, you will be shocked to find that it is much less than you need. So, what can you do to avoid this? How can you maximize your settlement check? Follow these tips.
1. Document Everything Possible
The insurance company will be unlikely to offer you compensation for bills and damage that you do not have evidence to support. For instance, if you say you visited the doctor on June 8th and this cost you $400, you must show proof—in the form of medical records and a receipt—in order to receive compensation. The same goes for any lost wages that you want to be compensated for by the insurance company. Make sure you have paperwork from your employer showing how many hours you missed and at what rate. (If you took paid leave while you were injured, you will have a hard time seeking compensation for that time off since you were ultimately paid for it).
2. Work With a Lawyer
Many people wait to hire a personal injury lawyer until they get their original settlement offer and it is lower than they desired. However, this is not the smartest strategy. You should instead work with a lawyer from the very beginning—before you even file your claim. Your lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and look over any paperwork you submit to ensure you do not overlook anything. The insurance company will often take a claim more seriously when it's submitted by a lawyer's office since they know a lawsuit will be coming if they don't offer you a fair settlement.
3. Stay Off Social Media
Whether you receive any compensation for your injury at all lies in the insurance company finding that the other driver is at fault for the accident. If you accidentally post anything on social media that suggests otherwise, and the insurance company happens to see that post, you could receive a reduced settlement—or none at all. Even something you think is completely innocent, like mentioning you didn't see the other driver's car pull out, could be taken as an admission of guilt by the insurance company. So it is best to stay off social media entirely until you receive your settlement.
4. Obey Doctor's Orders
If your doctor tells you to take pain relievers three times a day, do so. If he or she refers you to a specialist, make the appointment as soon as possible. If you do not obey your doctor's orders, any ongoing medical problems that you request compensation for may not be included in your settlement. The insurance company may insist that, had you taken better care of yourself, your injuries would have healed.
As you treat your injuries, also keep a journal of your progress. This will serve as extra proof of any ongoing complications you experience due to your injuries. You can submit the journal to the insurance company if you ask for funds related to ongoing treatment and a longer recovery.
If you follow the tips above, you will have an easier time getting a substantial settlement from your insurance company. Your personal injury lawyer can give you more tips and guidance in this regard. Ultimately, you should seek to receive enough to cover all of your bills related to the accident.
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