If you want to win a personal injury case, you must prove that the accused was the primary cause of the injuries suffered in the said accident. However, winning the case doesn’t always guarantee fair compensation.
Getting the right amount as settlement for your claim has several benefits. First, you receive the finances needed to fund your medical expenses and recover the income lost due to your incapacitation. It also offers some reprieve, knowing that you got justice, even if the effects of the injury might leave you handicapped and traumatized. Here are some useful tips for maximizing compensation in your personal injury case.
1 – Preserve evidence
Your evidence and its strength have a significant impact on the possible outcomes of your case. Lacking, falsifying, or exaggerating information you present before the court increases the chance of defeat. If you’re lucky, you might win, but you won’t receive fair compensation.
It’s essential to preserve your evidence until you get compensation. For example, you can back up photos and videos on the cloud. If you have hardcopy evidence like police and medical reports, receipts, and other supporting documents, please keep them safe. You can also consider hiring an experienced injury lawyer like Redmann Law to help you record statements from witnesses
2 – Seek medical attention
After an accident, some people think that the best way of preserving evidence is by remaining unattended. This is wrong. Seeing a doctor is the best course of action, since you might have invisible injuries that risk your wellness.
The doctor’s report is an integral part of your evidence. It shows the cause and extent of your injuries. You can also use it to substantiate your claim for monies lost due to incapacitation.
When talking to a doctor, be honest. Lying weakens your evidence and diminishes your credibility if the defendant can establish inconsistencies in your statement. However, you shouldn’t hesitate to share information you deem useful, even if the doctor doesn’t ask.
3 – Avoid overzealousness
Many people want the quick settlement of their personal injury cases because it can be tedious. However, overzealousness causes mistakes. For instance, it might tempt you into accepting an undeserving offer. Your insurance company can also use unscrupulous tactics such as delaying the case, complicating issues, or denying the claim to elicit a prompt response.
It’s advisable to take your time so that all the involved parties understand your plight. The judge should feel the strength of your case. Let your lawyer handle the case, and you’ll get a favorable outcome.
4 – Value your claim
It’s wrong to assume that you’re limited to one type of damage. Your injury might cause several types of damage, some of which you don’t know. For instance, you can claim compensation for emotional trauma or the loss of regular use of body functions, such as senses. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can help in valuing your claim.
5 – Avoid social media
Police officers usually tell the accused they have the right to silence when arresting them. If you have an ongoing case, it’s wise to stay off social platforms. Whatever you post on your Facebook, Twitter or Instagram can be used against you in this case.
For instance, you’re unlikely to get compensation for injuries if your Facebook account has images of you partying when you were supposedly receiving medical attention. It’s also wise to avoid talking to anybody about your case, except for the lawyer.
6 – Explain why an offer is inadequate
Another way of maximizing your compensation is convincing the defendant that you have a strong case. When they present an undesirable settlement, reject it and explain why you feel it’s inadequate. Ensure that you have the right paperwork to support your stance.
Rejecting small offers shows the other side that you’re confident in your evidence and committed to getting fair compensation. A qualified lawyer will explain the reasons for rejecting an offer and gather the documents required to negotiate a better offer.
7 – Make a good impression
Your demeanor can convince the jury to rule in your favor if the case goes to court. Always observe time and dress neatly when attending court sessions. Avoid fidgeting and compose yourself when answering questions. These details can help you win the case.
Endnote
The key to maximizing your compensation in a personal injury case is presenting irrefutable evidence. Ensure that you keep all the required reports and other evidence safely until the case is over. Avoid social platforms and talking to others about the case, as this can compromise your proof. Lastly, don’t accept offers without valuing your claim comprehensively.
