How to Increase Settlement Value
You may be compensated if you've been injured and believe someone else is at fault. Most personal injury cases are settled privately, without going to court. However, getting a fair settlement can be challenging, so you should work with an experienced attorney who knows how to increase settlement value and can increase your settlement amount.
Clinton O. Middleton has helped many clients fight for the compensation they deserve. We know how to ensure those at fault are held accountable and responsible and work towards the highest possible settlements for our clients. Call us today at 703-777-9630 for a free consultation. We're here to help. In the meantime, follow these tips to increase your personal injury settlement.
1. Collect Strong Evidence
The strength of your personal injury claim depends on the evidence you gather. Your evidence should clearly show the connection between the accident and your injuries.
Evidence can include:
- Medical records
- Photos and videos
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Employment records
- Expert opinions
- Estimates for property damage
It's essential to gather this evidence quickly. The longer you wait, the more likely the other side may try to hide or destroy evidence.
2. Get Medical Help Right Away
Medical treatment can be expensive, but you can seek compensation from the responsible party. Take your time seeing a doctor, even if you're worried about the costs. Delaying care could weaken your case, as the other side may argue that your injuries weren't severe or caused by the accident.
3. Write Down How Your Pain and Struggles Affect You
Many personal injury victims experience both physical pain and emotional distress. While it's hard to put a price on these invisible struggles, keeping a journal can help. Write about how your injuries impact your daily routine. If your case goes to court, a judge or jury may use your journal to understand your suffering better and consider a higher settlement.
4. Calculate All Damages
You have the right to be compensated for all the damages caused by the accident. These can include any costs that affect your physical, emotional, or financial well-being. Some damages to consider are:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of earning ability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Determining the total value of your damages can be tricky. Still, Clinton O. Middleton can help you evaluate your situation and suggest a fair settlement.
5. Work with Experts
Proving the full extent of your injuries can be difficult, especially if you need long-term care or face lasting consequences. Experts, like doctors or accident specialists, can help support your case and provide a clearer picture of your damages.
For example, a medical expert can explain how the accident caused your injuries and the cost of future care. An accident expert can rebuild the accident scene to show the responsible party's actions.
6. Don't Settle Too Quickly
Insurance companies often make fast settlement offers to victims. While this might seem tempting, accepting too soon could hurt your case. Once you settle, you can't return for more money if you find further damages later.
Take your time, and don't rush into a settlement. Insurance companies may offer more money once they see more evidence and realize you're serious about going to court.
7. Be Ready to File a Lawsuit
Insurance companies often try to avoid court but will only raise their offers if they think you're serious about filing a lawsuit. While most cases settle outside of court, it's essential to be ready to take your case to trial if necessary. Make sure you have a lawyer with trial experience.
8. Be Cautious with Social Media
Avoid posting about your case on social media. Insurers and attorneys may use your posts against you. Anything you share could hurt your case or reduce your settlement. Once your case is resolved, only mention your injuries, the lawsuit, or anything related to the accident on social media.
9. File Your Claim on Time
In Virginia, you have two years to file a personal injury claim. If you miss the deadline, your case may be dismissed. Since investigations can take time, starting the process as soon as possible is essential to ensure you meet the deadline.
10. Work with an Experienced Attorney
A personal injury lawyer can help you get a larger settlement. They know the ins and outs of the law and can guide you through the process.
At Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we have years of experience fighting for our clients' best outcomes. We handle everything from investigation to negotiation and, if needed, trial representation.
Investigation: While you focus on healing, we'll investigate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build the most robust case possible.
Negotiation: Our lawyers know how to negotiate with insurance companies and opposing lawyers. We'll never suggest settling for less than you deserve.
Trial Representation: We will take your case to court if negotiations fail. We'll present your evidence, question witnesses, and Defend your rights while you concentrate on healing and recovering.
Call Clinton O. Middleton at 703-777-9630 for a free consultation. We're here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
