How to Get A Fair Settlement In A Personal Injury Claim From Car Wreck

So you have been involved in a car crash, now what? The first and most important thing to do is to obtain medical care. Hopefully your injuries are minor and remember that cars can be replaced. If you were not the driver at fault, then you are now the injured party. It is important to go ahead and take steps to protect your interests and make sure that you are fairly compensated for your loss.

Things You'll Need

• Declaration Page Of Your Personal Auto Policy
• Telephone

Instructions

1. You will need a lawyer because the insurance company of the at-fault party will fight tooth and nail to pay you as little as possible. Since our society is so litigious, expect to begin receiving dozens of letters from lawyers wanting to represent you. Check them out and ask around for others advice to find a lawyer who specializes in personal injury. Found out up front what their percentage is of any monies you receive.

2. See a doctor and/or chiropractor. They will delay billing you until your case is settled. Keep detailed notes on your time from work, time spent going to see doctor's and exactly how much time you spend on the phone dealing with your injuries.

3. Read your own personal automobile insurance policy. Check your declarations page to see if you have Med Pay (medical payments) coverage. Make sure your lawyer gets a copy. This will be extra money in your pocket at settlement time.

4. The at-fault insurance company will quickly move to settle for your car's damages. Be firm about what price you want. If you have receipts for any recent repairs done to your damaged vehicle, then present those for compensation. Personally check on the value of your car, don't blindly accept the insurance company's value.

5. When the time comes to settle for your personal injuries, stand your ground on what you think is fair. Your lawyer's job is to negotiate and help you get the most money possible, so take their advice. The lawyer's for the at-fault party will attempt to pay you the lowest amount possible. If their final offer is not as much as you want, then you will have to work with your own lawyer to decide if it is worth the risk of taking your case to court and putting in front of a jury.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. If you want a quick settlement, then chances are you will never get the maximum amount for your claim. Count on 1 - 3 years to settle.