Explore Your Legal Options

Posted on: 13 July 2020

Just because you were hurt in an auto accident doesn't mean you are going to get a fair settlement. Many insurance companies make you work for a fair settlement. You may need to file a personal injury lawsuit in order to get a just settlement. Even once you file a personal injury lawsuit, there are still specific steps you have to take in order to ensure you get a fair settlement.

Way #1: Keep Your Own Records

First, you are going to want to keep your own records. You can turn your records over to your attorney if you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. The better records you keep, the easier it will be for your attorney to build a case.

When it comes to your records, you want to try to keep information for everything related to your case. You are going to want to collect information about anyone who witnessed your accident. You are going to want to obtain the police reports related to your accident.

You are going to want to keep track of all medical bills and expenses. You need to track all the expenses related to your vehicle. The more records you have, the better chance you have of getting a settlement that takes care of your financial needs.

Way #2: Don't Share Your Medical Records

Second, you shouldn't share your medical records with the other insurance company. You should only share your medical records with your attorney. Sharing your medical records with the other driver's insurance company could actually work against your settlement needs. Don't share that information until you are legally required to do so.

Way #3: Have Patience

Third, you need to have patience with the process. Don't feel like you have to accept a settlement offer. When you start working with an attorney, they will help you build up your case and create a formal statement to share with the insurance company along with a settlement proposal that will more than cover your needs.

Allow your attorney to handle the negotiations, and remember that you always have the option of taking your case all the way to court if they don't offer you a fair settlement. Many insurance companies will try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement; don't fall for that scare tactic. Allow your attorney to work for you.

When it comes to getting a fair settlement, documentation is the key. The more evidence you have concerning the accident and its impact on your life, the more leverage your attorney will have during settlement negotiations and the more information your attorney will have should your case go all the way to trail.

To learn more, contact an auto accident attorney.