Maximize Your Compensation!
There are a number of things you can do after an accident to maximize you potential compensation.
1. Gather Evidence.
Using your phone, take pictures of all vehicles involved from a number of different angles. Do the same for any immediately apparent injuries. Take pictures of any stop lights or signs, and any skid marks on the road.
Get names and contact information of any potential witness.
Take pictures of any structures or vegetation that might have blocked lines of sight.
2. Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you do not seem to need immediate medical treatment, you should be examined as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and some, such as concussions, may not be immediately apparent, although a trained doctor can hopefully spot them.
Your doctor will document any injuries, creating a report that can be used to support your claim later.
3. Avoid Social Media
Anything you post on social media can be used by the defendant’s claims adjusters or attorneys to lower your compensation. If you are claiming devastating injuries but have a social media posting that suggests otherwise, your case could be completely ruined. Personal injury surveillance is a real thing in Texas!
4. Value your Damages Properly
Your injuries can cause losses today as well as far into the future. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you work through what the proper value of your losses should be.
5. Don’t Wait too Long to get Your Case Started
You have limited time to filed your claim. This is known as the Statute of Limitations, and in Texas is two years from when the accident occurred.
In addition, memories can fade over time, so witnesses are generally more useful earlier than later.
6. Don’t be in a Hurry to Settle
The first settlement offer from the insurance company is often going to be arbitrarily low. They hope you are desperate for money. Be patient and work with your personal injury lawyers to negotiate appropriate compensation.
7. Make a Good Impression
It may not be fair, but a jury will make its decision based upon what they see and hear at your trial. Make sure what they see from you is appropriate and professional.
