A settlement is an agreement that is reached through negotiations. If you agree to a settlement, you will receive a certain amount of money from the defendant instead of going through a trial. Choosing to accept the settlement is a guaranteed outcome, whereas taking the case to trial may result in greater compensation but also carries the risk of receiving no personal injury compensation at all if you lose the case.
When settling a case, you and your accident lawyer can negotiate with the defendant’s representative until both parties agree to an acceptable offer. On the other hand, in a trial, the decision will be made by the judge or the jury, and you will have no control over the outcome.
After being injured in an accident, whether it be from a car, pedestrian, dog bite, slip or fall, or workplace incident, there are steps you can take to maximize your personal injury settlement.
Photograph your injuries.
It is important to take clear pictures of your injuries as soon as possible after the accident. Make sure to take pictures from different angles to capture the full extent of your injuries.
Document your injury accident and resulting pain and suffering.
As time passes, our memories tend to fade away. While you may feel that you will never forget the details of your injury, it is surprising how time can blur those details. Therefore, it is advisable to write down all the details of your accident, including the date, time, and location. Provide a detailed description of how the injury occurred and how it affected you. This will help you to recall the incident accurately in the future.
It is recommended that you keep a record of your treatment information along with the progress of your injury. To quantify your pain and track its changes over time, you could use the 0-10 medical pain scale often used in doctor’s offices.
Keep all medical records and receipts.
It’s important to have access to copies of your medical records, which include test results, treatment plans, referrals, and prescriptions. Additionally, keep track of your receipts, such as copays and prescription fees. These documents serve as crucial evidence in building a strong case for your pain and suffering, as well as any financial losses you may have incurred.
Take your medical care seriously.
It is essential to see a doctor promptly after any injury accident, even if you don’t feel any immediate pain. A physician can often identify developing injuries before you do and advise you on how to prevent them from worsening. It is equally important to attend all follow-up appointments, take all medications as prescribed, and pursue all recommended therapies. By doing so, you can ensure that you are on track to a full and speedy recovery.
Hire an experienced accident lawyer.
To find the right lawyer for your case, look for someone who has experience with your specific type of injury or case. Your attorney can help you build a strong case based on the facts, and they can also advise you on whether or not a settlement offer is fair. By relying on their expertise, you can increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
source: https://tingeylawfirm.com/will-medical-treatment-increase-my-personal-injury-settlement/
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