Making a personal injury claim against the party or parties responsible makes it possible for accident victims or their families to get compensated for their damages. Reaching a settlement outside of court with an insurance company is a common alternative to filing an official lawsuit, though sometimes settlement negotiations can be reached even after the plaintiff has formally filed their lawsuit in court.
Occasionally, going through the formal process of filing a lawsuit is necessary when dealing with an disagreeable defendant. But in many cases, both parties can avoid the length and stress of litigation by coming to an agreement out of court.
This, however, does not mean that getting the compensation you deserve is easy. The insurance company, like any other profit-motivated business, will go to lengths to protect its bottom line—which means the adjuster is unlikely to accept your initial demands. However, playing the negotiation game could be key to earning the settlement you deserve, and an experienced attorney could help.
In order to win a judgement in a lawsuit, the plaintiff must establish the role of the defendant in causing their damages. The same is true for winning a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company out of court. Generally speaking, the stronger and more compelling evidence you are able to wield in your favor, the more likely you are to win the settlement you deserve.
One way to document your claim is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. By visiting a trusted doctor, you are not only receiving the treatment you need for your injuries, but you’re also ensuring that the full extent of your injuries is recorded. These medical records can be used later, when you’re negotiating with the insurance company over the true value of your damages.
Other evidence that could prove important in your case includes any police or accident reports, as well as witness or expert testimonies.
Insurance companies work the same as any other business: They aim to increase profit by keeping costs down. And if you’re in the insurance business, that means paying as little as possible to settle claims brought against their policy holders.
After submitting your demand letter to the insurance company, you may be disappointed with the initial offer you get back. It’s common for an insurance adjuster to be only authorized to offer a percentage of the actual value of your damages. Often, staying in the game as long as possible and negotiating can allow you to inch the number closer to the settlement you deserve.
When fighting for the compensation you deserve, there’s no reason to let an insurance company boss proceedings. Hiring an experienced attorney is a strong way to signal your intent. At Rafidi, Pallante & Melewski LLC, we can help you negotiate for a maximum settlement.
Call 1-866-494-5387 or visit our website to consult a Columbus personal injury lawyer from our firm.
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Rafidi, Pallante & Melewski, LLC represents personal injury, car accident, medical malpractice, and litigation clients throughout Ohio. We have handled thousands of cases throughout Ohio. However, we didn’t get hired based on a catch phrase, an actor, or television advertising. Most of our cases come from referrals. We earned the trust and respect of our former clients, attorneys, friends, and other professionals in the community and have been very successful as a result.... View full business profile here: Rafidi, Pallante & Melewski, LLC
