If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car accident, the last thing you may want to do is pursue litigation. Sitting in a courtroom, hearing the details of the accident and seeing photographs of an event that changed your life is uncomfortable. Many people wish to settle their accident claims quickly — but does a quick settlement mean less money? Not necessarily.
Know the Realistic Figure for Accident Related Damages
Before accepting a settlement offered by an insurance company after an accident, you should know what your claim is worth. This means adding up all of your economic damages. These include hospital bills, vehicle repair costs, lost wages, and other concrete expenses directly related to the accident. Then, you’ll want an attorney’s help to accurately estimate non-economic damages, such as emotional pain and suffering. Knowing how much your claim is worth can help you identify a lowball offer and reject it if need be.
Make Sure You Have Compelling Evidence
Compelling evidence includes how convincing it is and the way it is presented. Ensure that your evidence is both. Photographs, doctor’s reports, and other forms of evidence can sway the insurance company to offer a fair settlement amount. However, it’s also important that these items are well organized and clearly presented.
Don’t Keep Trial Off the Table
Although going to trial is something to avoid, it’s important to not let the insurance company get wind of your goals to settle out of court. Make them to believe that you’ll do whatever is necessary to obtain the full and fair compensation you deserve. Be sure to hold those accountable for your injuries and suffering after an accident.
Keep a trial on the back burner in case you really do need to litigate to get the financial restitution you need. If the insurance company offers you less than your basic costs, pursue litigation so nothing comes out of your pocket.
After an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer for help. Call Chalker Injury Law today for more information at (678) 319-9991.
