Being injured in an accident is stressful, painful, and confusing. Most people believe that settling a personal injury case always involves having a courtroom battle, but it does not necessarily have to. Most claims are actually settled outside of court. You may be able to settle your case if you were injured because of another person’s fault.
Receive Medical Attention and Keep Records
The first and most essential thing to do following an accident is to visit a doctor. Even if you believe your injuries are minimal initially, it is highly recommended that you let a medical expert check you. There are a few injuries that don’t show immediate signs, and a medical report can be of great value in proving your claim.
If you are in a city like Seattle, known for its congested streets, perpetual rain, and heavy traffic, accidents can happen in the twinkling of an eye. Be sure to photocopy your doctor’s reports, treatment, and medical bills. Photograph your injuries, take pictures of the accident scene, and gather contact information of witnesses. All this evidence will come in handy in building a strong case with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer in Seattle.
Notify the At-Fault Party
Once you have gone to a medical emergency room and obtained evidence, report the accident to the company or party that caused the accident. Report to a property owner, driver, landlord, etc., depending on where you feel you made an error. Inform their insurance company that you are going to be making a claim as well. Be courteous and do not admit fault or reveal too much information before talking with your attorney.
File an Insurance Claim
Next, you make a claim against the insurance company of the at-fault party. You’ll need to provide your documentation, such as evidence of medical bills, lost income, and other losses that you’ve incurred. Insurance companies like to offer low amounts in the beginning and hope you’ll take a quick settlement. Don’t act hastily; give yourself a little time to consider the offer and see if or not it actually covers your losses.
Negotiate a Settlement
Most personal injury claims are resolved through negotiation. You or your attorney can call the insurance company and ask for a reasonable settlement. It is recommended that you officially present your damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you don’t know how to negotiate, it is recommended that you get an experienced personal injury lawyer who can advise and represent you.
Consider Mediation or Arbitration
Where negotiation fails, mediation or arbitration may be alternatives to the courtroom. Mediation is accomplished with the assistance of a third-party neutral who helps the two sides reach a fair agreement. Arbitration is a more formalized procedure and can result in a binding award. Both procedures are usually faster and less costly than litigation and can effectively conclude your case.
Conclusion
A claim for personal injury can indeed be settled without trial through preparation and due process. From medical treatment to insurance carrier negotiations, the majority of claims are resolved by compromise and negotiation. If assistance is required along the way, an experienced Seattle personal injury attorney can provide the advice and advocacy necessary to help you obtain the award that you deserve, without the cost of a trial.
