Each year, car accident injuries result in over $18 billion in medical costs. The average trip to the emergency room costs $3,300, while a hospital stay costs the patient $57,000.
With numbers like these, it’s no wonder there are so many car accident lawyers out there who are fighting for justice.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, how can you be sure you get the compensation you need to cover your expenses? In this post, we’ll walk you through proven ways to maximize your car accident compensation.
Keep reading to learn more!
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Table of Contents
Document Everything
The very first thing to do after you’ve been injured in a car accident is to get everything properly documented. Even if the accident seemed minor, call 911 and make sure to get an official police report. This is key to making a successful car accident claim.
You’ll also need to gather information from all parties involved, including names, contact information, and insurance details.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Again, even if you don’t have any apparent injuries, be sure to visit your doctor or an urgent care clinic right away. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not manifest for several days following the accident.
If you delay, the other driver’s insurance company will likely say that your injuries were minor. Even worse, they could argue that you have no proof that the accident caused them. This could damage your ability to seek adequate car accident compensation, so don’t skip this step.
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Follow All Prescribed Treatment Plans
Make sure to mention every symptom you’re experiencing and get them officially diagnosed. Don’t stop at only the worst symptoms — mention any changes to the way you feel and think.
If your doctor recommends physical therapy, go to every session. Fill all prescriptions, even if you don’t need to use them. Keep records and receipts of everything, including anything you buy over the counter.
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Return to Work (If You Can)
Depending on the severity of your injuries, this might not be possible. However, juries tend to favor people who continue to try to work. Be sure to have your employer document any restrictions or changes to your duties as a result of the accident.
Another reason to keep working is you’ll need the income and benefits to cover your costs until you receive your car accident compensation settlement.
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Avoid Social Media
You’d better believe that the insurance companies will be examining your life under a microscope. They’ll use any excuse they can to minimize your car accident claim.
For that reason, don’t post anything about the accident or your treatment or recovery on social media. You also wouldn’t want to post pictures of yourself playing sports or engaging in physical hobbies. Lawyers could argue that you’re not really “injured” if you’re out playing golf or tennis.
Get the Car Accident Compensation You Deserve
To maximize your car accident compensation, follow the steps outlined above.
Get everything officially documented and seek prompt medical treatment. Follow through with all treatment and return to your job if possible. Finally, don’t share anything related to your accident or other activities on social media.
Now that you know what to do after a car accident, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more stellar legal advice.