How to Maximize Your Personal Injury Settlement
November 1, 2024 in Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured in an accident that may qualify for a personal injury settlement, you’ve likely considered what it will take to secure the best possible outcome. Achieving this requires understanding the process, making informed decisions, and working strategically. However, knowing how to approach the process effectively requires specialized expertise.
Below, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo lay out actionable tips for maximizing your settlement.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the most important consideration following an injury. Seek prompt medical care immediately. Not only does this get you the necessary treatment but it also creates documentation of your injuries. Insurance adjusters often scrutinize the timeline between the incident and when you sought care. Gaps in seeking treatment can weaken your case, allowing them to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you’ve claimed.
2. Preserve Evidence
The strength of your case often depends on the evidence you are able to provide. Details can quickly get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, so act quickly to gather everything you need.
Key items to gather include:
- Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and property damage.
- Contact information for witnesses.
- Police or incident reports.
3. Be Cautious When Speaking to Insurance Adjusters
If there is one takeaway from this article, it’s that insurance companies are not on your side. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts so consider that they may use your statements against you. When speaking to an adjuster it’s important to stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries. Additionally, never agree to a recorded statement without consulting your lawyer. A qualified NYC personal injury lawyer can handle these communications on your behalf.
4. Document Everything
Meticulous documentation can make or break a successful personal injury claim. Make sure to keep a record of medical bills, prescriptions, and therapy sessions, as well as missed workdays and lost income. Consider tracking transportation expenses related to medical appointments or maintaining a journal of your physical pain and emotional distress. These details help illustrate the full impact of your injuries, strengthening your case.
5. Don’t Rush to Settle
It’s tempting to accept the first offer from an insurance company, especially if you’re facing financial pressure. However, initial offers are often low and may not reflect the long-term costs of your injuries.
Before agreeing to any settlement, think about the costs you may incur in the future related to your injury. This may include future medical expenses, long-term loss of income or earning potential, and even ongoing pain and suffering.
Personal injury cases often take time. While waiting can be difficult, patience often leads to better outcomes. Trust your lawyer’s advice and stay focused on the end goal.
6. Avoid Social Media
It may be second nature to share updates on social media, however, it’s important to be aware that anything that you post can be used against you in a personal injury case. Even seemingly harmless photos or status updates can be misinterpreted to suggest you’re not as injured as you claim. While your case is active it may be best to stay off social media entirely.
7. Hire an Experienced NYC Personal Injury Lawyer
The legal process in NYC can be overwhelming, especially to those unfamiliar with it. Our skilled personal injury lawyers can guide you through the complexities of your case. They will investigate the accident thoroughly, identify all liable parties, handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if needed, prepare your case for trial.
Choosing the right lawyer can make a significant difference in your settlement amount. Look for someone with a proven track record in personal injury cases like the trusted attorneys at SPBMCC. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll talk through the severity of your injuries, the degree of negligence involved, and the impact on your quality of life to set realistic expectations for your personal injury case.
8. Be Honest About Your Case
Exaggerating or hiding details about your personal injury case can backfire and damage your credibility. For the greatest chance at a positive outcome, share all relevant information with your lawyer— even if you think it might hurt your case.
Taking the right steps early on and working with an experienced NYC personal injury lawyer can improve your chances of receiving compensation. Contact our team today for a free consultation.
Contact an Experienced NYC Personal Injury Lawyer at SPBMCC Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in personal injury cases, 9/11-related illnesses, firefighter accidents, car accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.