When you get hurt in a preventable accident, you do not just incur direct costs like medical bills and home care expenses. Depending on the severity of the injuries, you may also sustain indirect damages like lost wages and benefits. Since insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators, it can be challenging for claimants to secure an injury settlement that covers all of the resulting costs. Fortunately, there are steps accident victims can take to increase their chances of getting the compensation they deserve.

How to Secure a Fair Injury Settlement 

1. Document Everything

You may not be able to provide tangible evidence of noneconomic damages like pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life, but you can document all economic damages. This includes hospital bills, doctor’s copays, pharmacy receipts, physical therapy costs, and home care expenses. If treatment includes seeing a specialist who is not local, you can also include factors like travel expenses in the total injury settlement.

2. Track Your Progress

If you sustained visible injuries, photograph them every single day to document their progress as they heal. You should also start a daily journal to track any internal injuries. These entries do not have to be lengthy or even incredibly detailed. When time is short, simply create a bulleted list that states how you felt that day and how the injuries impacted your normal routine. 

3. Seek Quality Counsel

Even personal injury claims that seem fairly straightforward can pose certain challenges. For example, if the insurance adjuster disputes their policyholder’s liability, the burden of proof lies on the claimant. Demonstrating fault in a car accident case calls for a considerable amount of legwork like interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and obtaining surveillance footage. By hiring a seasoned lawyer from the start, you can focus on recovering while your attorney handles the logistics of the claim and protects your best interests.

If you were hurt because of someone else’s negligence, a compassionate personal injury attorney from Peck & Peck Attorneys At Law will help you negotiate for a sizable injury settlement. Based in Hartford, CT, the legal team at this father-and-son firm have more than 35 years of combined experience helping accident victims regain their financial footing. You can learn about the comprehensive services they provide by visiting their website. To schedule an initial consultation with a strategic lawyer, call (860) 236-4782.