After a car accident or serious injury, the costs can add up quickly. Medical bills, lost wages, and the toll it takes on your quality of life can be overwhelming. That’s why so many people in Michigan turn to experienced personal injury lawyers to help them secure the compensation they deserve.
While you’re entitled to financial compensation after an accident, the final settlement amount depends on several key factors. In this blog post, we’ll share simple tips and proven strategies to help you maximize your personal injury compensation and protect your rights after a life-changing accident.
Keep reading to ensure that you get the most out of your personal injury case, and the compensation you deserve.
#1: Get as much information after the car accident as possible
There’s no doubt that after an accident, everything moves fast, adrenaline is high, and it can be hard to know what to do next. However, if possible, gather as much information as possible at the scene of the accident.
Of course, start by exchanging information with the other driver(s) involved, including their name, phone number, insurance details, and license plate number. In addition, think to look around for witnesses who may have seen the accident. Try to flag them down and politely ask for their name, phone number, and address. Having eyewitness accounts can be helpful in answering key questions like:
- Who was at fault?
- How did the accident happen?
- What actions contributed to the crash?
Witness testimonies can significantly strengthen your case, leading you to receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Another important step is to take plenty of photos. Taking photos is beneficial for obvious reasons, they tell the story of what happened. After a car accident, get photos of your vehicle from different angles, as well as any damage to the other vehicles. Even if your car doesn’t look heavily damaged, capturing the condition of the other vehicle can help show how intense the collision truly was. These images serve as significant evidence to show the severity of the crash and will support your injury claim.
#2 Get Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
After a car accident, many victims make the mistake of delaying medical attention, thinking their injuries are minor. Unfortunately, some injuries, like internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is crucial. Not only for your health and recovery, but it also helps strengthen your personal injury claim. Medical records can provide evidence that your injuries were directly caused by the accident.
Additionally, make sure to follow your doctor’s advice. For example, if your doctor recommends physical therapy, be sure to go. Ignoring medical advice can suggest to a jury or insurance company that your injuries were not that serious, which will negatively impact your compensation.
#3 Don’t Trust the Insurance Company
The insurance claims adjusters’ goal is to get you to settle for the least amount of money possible after your accident. After a car accident, we highly recommend that you avoid speaking directly to the insurance company.
Insurance representatives will often ask you numerous questions, including ones that may seem irrelevant to the accident itself, such as who was living in your household, who owns the car, etc. These questions are designed to find ways to deny or reduce your claim.
By not engaging with them directly, you protect yourself from accidentally providing them with information that could hurt your case. It’s important to let an experienced personal injury attorney handle these conversations to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
#4 Call an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
As mentioned, by calling an experienced Michigan personal injury attorney, you protect yourself and your case from being compromised in many ways. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is one of the best steps you can take after a car accident. They will provide you with legal advice, answer any questions you may have, and explain the confusing ins and outs of insurance claims. And most importantly, they will fight for your rights and handle the insurance company so you can focus on healing.
An attorney’s goal is to get you the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. At the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, we have over 50 years of experience and recovered hundreds of millions for our clients. We know how to stand up to the insurance companies and make sure accident victims get the compensation they’re entitled to.
#5: Listen to Your Lawyer’s Advice
After getting in touch with an experienced personal injury lawyer, make sure to keep in close contact with them and listen to the advice that they give you. For example, if you miss a doctor’s appointment and your lawyer asks you to reschedule it, make sure to do so. Your attorney has your best interests in mind, and will use their expertise to effectively guide you through this process.
If you happen to disagree with your lawyer or have a suggestion, a good lawyer will be willing to hear you out and adjust the strategy accordingly. Sharing your input with your lawyer is encouraged because communication between a lawyer and client is what makes a case successful. If you have questions, ask them. If you need advice, call them. If you’re unsure about something, express that. Every successful personal injury case involves great communication between the client and their attorney.
Conclusion
In every valid personal injury case, there are ways to ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries. If you choose the right personal injury attorney and follow the tips above, you’re more likely to obtain a larger settlement than you would otherwise.Our attorneys have fought against the most intimidating insurance companies in the state, and are here to fight for the justice that you deserve. If you have been injured in a Michigan accident, give us a call at 1-800-LEE-FREE, or fill out a free consultation form on our website to get in touch with an attorney today.