How to Maximize Compensation in Your Personal Injury Case

If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, a crucial step in your recovery is making sure you are adequately compensated for your injuries. Maximizing your award begins immediately after the accident or incident occurs. Follow these steps to ensure you are compensated appropriately.

Immediately following the incident

If you are able, collect the names and information of anyone involved in the incident, especially witnesses. Your attorney will need this information later to collect detailed witness statements.

Preserve as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the scene and your injuries if you can. If there is a police report, obtain a copy. If you can obtain video surveillance, do so. The more evidence you can collect immediately, the better.

Seeking medical treatment after your injuries occur will give you a clear and accurate picture of all of the damage that has been done. Even if you aren’t sure of the extent of your injuries, you should visit a hospital or a doctor’s office. Following your diagnosis, you’ll want to closely follow the medical professional’s treatment plan, including attending physical therapy, rehab, or follow-up appointments. Noncompliance or failure to treat can be used against you in a personal injury case.

Stop here and hire an attorney

If you’re reading this following an incident and you’ve done all of the above (and even if you haven’t), now is the time to stop and contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A trusted lawyer will guide you through the entire process from start to finish, thoroughly preparing your case to set you up for maximum recovery.

It’s important to hire an attorney as soon as possible. Oftentimes, there is a statute of limitations on personal injury claims and not taking action soon enough can lower your chances of receiving an adequate recovery amount.

Know your worth

Oftentimes, accepting the first offer you receive prevents you from maximizing your award. It’s understandably tempting to do this when you’re hurt and/or under financial pressure, but resist this urge. To get the maximum amount of compensation, you need to show the opposing side that you are in it for the long haul. If you’re willing to put in the time and energy, you’ll send a strong message of tenacity and persistence which will likely lead to a more favorable result.

In a personal injury case, don’t assume that you are limited to just physical damage. Oftentimes, you are able to claim compensation for emotional damage, loss of wages as a result of your injury, future damages, and more. An attorney will help you to understand all of the damages you can claim.  

Throughout the process

Immediately following the incident and all throughout your case, be sure to stay off social media and refrain from discussing your case with others. When you post or share information or photos regarding your case, it can be found and used against you.

Be polite and respectful to everyone involved, including the opposing side. Show up to hearings on time looking your best. This can help you earn empathy from the opposing side, urging them to offer you a proper settlement, or may encourage a jury to act in your favor.

Finally, be patient. The road to the maximum recovery takes time. Trust the process and know that your team of experts will be working diligently to get you the compensation you deserve.

If you believe you have a personal injury claim, call LaSalvia Law. Our team will fight for you, and you won’t pay until you win your case.