Individuals harmed by the negligent actions of others are often able to recover compensation, either through an insurance settlement or as a result of a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. However, not every injury victim receives the maximum possible settlement, but there are certain tips we think are helpful to those who want to maintain the integrity of their claim.

Seek Prompt Medical Care (And Continue Your Treatments)

Individuals who sustain an injury caused by the negligent actions of other parties must seek prompt medical treatment. First and foremost, this treatment is necessary for your health and well-being. Even if you do not feel much harm right away, the signs and symptoms of some injuries do not occur until hours or even days after an incident occurs. Seeking medical care soon after an incident establishes a strong link between the injuries and the incident, leaving less doubt about the cause of the injury.

Make Sure You Account for All Expenses Caused by the Injury

Injury victims should keep track of any additional expenses they incur as a result of the injury. For example, even though most people know that they should keep track of their medical expenses, they should also keep the following types of losses in mind:

• Lost income if they are unable to work while they recover
• Out-of-pocket expenses are rising due to the injury, including any help needed for child care, household maintenance, lawn services, etc.
• Property damage expenses arising due to the incident

Be Wary of Initial or Quick Settlement Offers

An insurance carrier could offer a settlement fairly soon after the claim is filed. Please know that early settlement offers are usually far below what you should actually receive for your injury. Insurance carriers want to get you to accept this settlement because once you do, it is very hard (nearly impossible) to re-open a claim later on.

The role of the insurance claims adjusters is to limit the total amount of compensation they pay claimants. They will use various tactics to limit compensation payment amounts, and this often includes significant back-and-forth negotiation.

If you receive a settlement offer, make sure that the offer accounts for all of the expenses you have incurred. Additionally, do not accept any settlement until after you have completed medical treatments.

Work With an Attorney

You may not think about working with an attorney after an injury occurs, but we encourage you to seek out a free consultation. A personal injury lawyer in Louisville can examine the facts of your case and help you understand your best route toward recovering maximum compensation. Your lawyer can handle every aspect of the claim on your behalf. This includes investigating the incident, gathering the correct documentation, communicating with the insurance carriers, and even filing a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.

An attorney will be ready for any tactics by the other party to limit compensation payout amounts. They will be your advocate, working on your behalf to secure the compensation you need.