It can be certainly agreed that being in an accident more than puts a damper in your lifestyle and in fact, most times the events that flow from being in an accident can be downright confusing.

The fact is that accidents do happen and if you are injured in an accident when it was the other party’s fault, it is in your best interest to file a claim right away. However, be prepared to deal with insurance companies and make negotiations to get adequate compensation for your claim.

Here's what you must know: 

1. After an Accident

It is crucial to receive proper medical attention right after being involved in an accident. If you wait too long (ie: too much time has elapsed eg: six months and beyond). The medical reports will be challenged in court should it end up in litigation and by opposing counsel as any intervening accident could have happened within that time.Next, speak with a personal injury lawyer to get the ball rolling on the personal injury claim or property damage claim.

There are things you can do to get the best outcome possible out of your settlement. By working with an attorney and knowing how to negotiate properly with an insurance company, you can successfully receive what you deserve to help pay for bills that have piled up from the accident along with getting adequate compensation for your pain and suffering, and incidental expenses.

2. During the Claim 

The most important thing you can do during a personal injury claim is to never rush the process and be patient.The process can take time. Of course, this is no excuse to procrastinate and put things off, but make sure you are taking the time to properly document and evaluate all of the details involved in your accident and personal injury claim/property damage claim.

 Records

Keep all of your legal and medical records along with any witness statement reports. Be prepared to show these to your insurance company. Before speaking with them, make a plan and be aware that insurance companies try to take advantage of victims all the time as they know that victims are not aware of how compensation figures are calculated by the attorneys. NB( Fingers are not drawn out of the air, there is research into the case law and legal literature).

3.Talking with Insurance Companies

Once you have all of the details in place, calculate a fair settlement that includes medical expenses, expenses for any related care, amount of income lost, expenses for long term medical care, and pain and suffering. If there is property damage involved, such as a vehicle in an auto accident, include that as well. In addition, always get advice from an attorney.

Next, it is time to send a demand letter with your fair settlement calculation to the insurance company. If you fail to hear back from the insurance company in a timely manner, always reach out to them. You want to be in constant contact with the insurance company and remain aggressive until the settlement is finalized.

Never accept the first offer! The first offer is usually way too low and you need to fight for the worth of your claim. This is where negotiation comes into play. Especially if you have strong evidence on your side, never settle right away. Stay persistent, patient, and methodplogical in your approach.

Remember to always get all offers in writing and only accept when you feel it is the right offer for you after consulting with a personal injury lawyer.

The best way to negotiate is to hire a personal injury lawyer. The team at The Law Offices of Deanna McFarlane is competent and well versed in the area of personal injury law .We have in-depth knowledge and experience to fight for you from the beginning of your case to the end, never settling for less than you deserve in negotiating with insurance companies. Give us a call or drop us a line at the contact details on our main page. #personalinjurylaw #lawyerinJamaica