Last Updated: Feb 23, 2024
Prospective clients often want to know how to maximize the potential settlement value of a car accident case. However, every civil case is unique, and the facts of your particular case will influence the final settlement or judgment amount associated with your case. It is extremely difficult to predict the total value of any automobile accident case. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to provide you with exceptional legal representation which will help you maximize the potential settlement amount of your case.
It is necessary to document your expenses so you do not lose track of the total damages amount associated with your case. You need to ensure that you have documents which substantiate the financial losses you suffered due to the accident. Therefore, it is essential that you focus on keeping meticulous records regarding both general damages and special damages.
The following are some of the common expenses you should document throughout the course of your automobile accident case:
- Mental health treatment
- In-home care providers
- Domestic modifications to improve mobility
- The cost of transportation between medical appointments
- Medical equipment
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Medical care provided by specialists
- Emergency room costs
- Ambulance costs
This is not an exhaustive list of the types of financial losses you should keep track of as you seek financial compensation for your injuries. Every automobile accident case is different, and if you have questions about documenting your total damages amount, then you need to speak to a knowledgeable car accident attorney. You will also need to keep records of your injuries so you can ensure that a civil complaint is filed within the statute of limitations period.
1. An Automobile Accident Attorney Can Conduct Settlement Negotiations With Opposing Counsel
Settlement negotiations can be contentious during automobile accident cases. If you do not have a lawyer on your side, then it is likely that opposing counsel will attempt to settle your case for less than your total damages amount. A knowledgeable attorney will know which number is reasonable for initiating settlement negotiations with defense counsel. Also, you may need to factor in the possibility that passenger rights will be a part of your automobile accident case. If so, you need an experienced litigator on your side who is knowledgeable about California passenger rights in car accident claims.
You need to have substantial evidence demonstrating your lost earnings, medical bills, and other financial costs associated with the automobile accident. You do not want to simply set forth an unreasonable number when you participate in settlement negotiations. An attorney will help you understand how to engage in these negotiations so it is more likely that you can obtain a fair settlement offer from the defense.
An attorney needs to be able to listen to your concerns and help you determine how best to obtain financial compensation for your injuries. You do not have to be intimidated about the legal system or opposing counsel as you proceed to the next stage of your car accident case. It is important to remain confident and professional as you work toward resolving your civil lawsuit.
2. Car Accident Lawyers Understand The Difference Between Reasonable Settlement Offers and Unreasonable Settlement Offers
It would be great if opposing counsel were honest and helpful throughout the course of litigation. However, the truth is that defense counsel will try to settle your case for the least amount possible. Therefore, it is in your best interest to work with a car accident attorney who understands the difference between settlement offers which are reasonable and those which are not. You do not have to understand everything about personal injury law to understand a reasonable settlement offer for your case.
Once you sign a settlement agreement you cannot litigate the claims you set forth in your complaint. It is extremely important that you only consider settlement offers which are fair and reasonable given the nature of your injuries. Also, you want to consider the costs of any property damage associated with the automobile accident. An experienced car accident attorney will be able to stand up to opposing counsel and inform them that a proposed settlement offer is unreasonable.
3. The Resources Which Enable Car Accident Attorneys To Be Persistent
Car accident attorneys need to assess each automobile accident case individually. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine how long it will take a case to settle. Some automobile accident cases may go to trial, but this is not often the case. A law firm will have resources available to them which will help you maximize the potential economic value of your car accident case. Defense attorneys will file frivolous motions and do everything within their power to slow down the progressio of the case. You do not have to spend all your time dealing with a civil lawsuit when you hire a personal injury lawyer.
An attorney’s support staff will be able to respond to pleadings and keep the litigation process moving along at a steady pace. An organized office will ensure that you do not file any documents beyond a specific deadline. The more organized and efficient you handle your case, the sooner it will be resolved through settlement or trial. Having an attorney work on your case will help you focus on healing from your injuries and moving on with your life.
4. Do Not Use Social Media Applications While Your Automobile Accident Case Is Pending
Using social media applications may help you feel more connected to family members and loved ones, but doing so may harm your ability to obtain monetary compensation for your injuries. It can be tempting to post about the car accident in which you suffered injuries. However, you need to know that insurance claim adjusters will scrutinize your social media pages to determine if you are malingering or lying about your injuries. Therefore, do not post anything on your social media accounts until your automobile accident case resolves.
