Help! How do I Get Maximum Compensation in my Personal Injury Case?
When filing a personal injury claim, it makes sense to do everything you can to maximize the potential compensation you will get. What you do after your injury counts, and there are certain things you can do so you can make the most of your claim.
The help of a personal injury lawyer can also come in handy in this case. If you want to get the maximum compensation in your personal injury case, below are some of the things you should keep in mind:
1. Keep detailed records
As the plaintiff in the case, the burden of proof is on you so the more detailed you are, the better. For instance, if you got involved in an automobile accident, make sure you get the names of all the people involved and that of potential witnesses.
It is also recommended that you take photographs and file a report with the police department and your insurance company. It is also ideal that you obtain copies of everything as soon as possible. The same principle applies when dealing with a medical injury case.
2. Get medical treatment
Getting medical treatment is deemed a given. However, some people who don’t feel anything after an accident will ignore this step. Never commit this mistake. It would also help if you keep a record of how you feel as time goes on.
In many cases, an injury or condition in the future can be traced back to the accident. If the accident has left you traumatized, make sure you get the appropriate mental help and care. Ensure you also keep all the records and receipts.
3. Value your claim accordingly
Many people commit the mistake of limiting themselves to one specific type of damage. There are several types of damages depending on the injuries you suffered (click here to read our blogpost on the types of damages you can receive after a successful personal injury case). For instance, you can claim compensation for emotional damages or loss of regular use of body functions.
4. Watch what you say
Just like other legal matters, you need to be aware that some things you say that negatively impact your case. While it can be tempting to discuss your case especially on social media, avoid doing so if you don’t want to compromise your chances of getting the maximum compensation.
5. Be patient
When you get involved in an accident, it would be tempting to accept the first offer given. However, it would pay not to be too eager. Often, accepting the first offer can hinder you from getting the maximum compensation.
To help ensure you get the best offer, you have to show the other party that you are willing to go the distance. This can also mean rejecting the first couple of offers you get if you are not completely happy with it. It is also recommended that you check with your attorney if you should decline or accept a settlement offer.
6. Convince the other party that you have a robust case
If you want to get maximum compensation, you need to show the other party that you have a strong case against them. If you think the settlement offer is not good enough, respond by explaining to them why you are not accepting the offer. You also need to provide documentation to back up your assertions.
Rejecting a settlement that you are not satisfied with shows the other party that you are committed to getting the compensation you deserve. Your attorney can also help you with the documentation so you can justify why the offer is inadequate.
7. Build your case accordingly
Even if your case does not go to trial, you need to methodically build your case if you want to get the maximum compensation. This can involve providing discovery demands to the other party and having your attorney request records or conduct depositions.
If you also have a solid and well-prepared case, you can do an excellent job of pressuring the other party so you can get a fair settlement.
If you are not doing the work needed to build your case, you are more likely to get a lowball settlement if it becomes evident to the other party that you are not doing the work needed to build your case. If they see that you are willing to go to trial and win, the other party will be more inclined to pay you the right compensation.
8. Create a good impression
Often, the other party will make an offer based on what they anticipate a jury might do at the trial. In many cases, juries make their decisions based on what they hear and see at the trial. That said, it is crucial to always put your best foot forward.
This can also involve being respectful and polite at all times. It will also help if you look presentable each time you are due in court. While seemingly trivial, even the slightest effort can help convince the other side to offer you a just settlement.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, don’t think twice about getting the help of the best personal injury lawyer you can find. They can provide the best advice on what you need to do to build a strong case. Every step of the way, they can also help you build your case so you can get the fair compensation you are after.
