If you’ve been injured in an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your injuries. This process can be daunting, but with the help of a qualified personal injury lawyer in Bakersfield, it can be much easier.

Medical bills can pile up quickly and waiting for a settlement can put a strain on your finances. Legal funding companies can provide an advance on your potential settlement, helping you stay afloat while your case progresses. Remember, this is not a magic solution, and there are fees involved, so explore this option with caution and only after consulting with an attorney.

This article will discuss four tips from experts on how to settle a personal injury claim.

Find a Lawyer

The first step in filing a personal injury claim is to find a lawyer who specializes in this area of law. Many lawyers practice general law, but you want to make sure you find one who has experience specifically with personal injury claims.

A personal injury lawyer Bakersfield will give you the best chance of success in settling your claim. A local legal representative will not only be more familiar with the laws and procedures in your state, which can help get your claim resolved, but they will know the colleagues and judges and how they’re usually working.

Don’t be afraid to schedule consultations with a few different lawyers to find the one you feel most comfortable with. This person is someone you’ll be working closely with, so trust and communication are key.

They will also be able to guide you through the process and help you build a strong case against the insurance company.

Get All the Documentation

When you meet with your injury lawyer, make sure to bring all of the documentation related to your accident and injuries. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant paperwork. The more information your lawyer has, the better they will be able to build your case.

Additionally, if you have any photographs of the accident scene or your injuries, be sure to bring those along as well. These can help demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the extent of the damage.

By gathering this documentation, you’ll be presenting a strong case with clear evidence of your injuries and the impact they’ve had on your life. Remember, the more organized you are, the easier it will be for your lawyer to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Know Your Goals

You must know what you want to achieve before you start negotiating with the insurance company. Are you looking for a specific amount of money or are you just looking to cover your medical expenses?

On the other hand, if the accident was particularly severe and you are unable to work or earn an income, you may want to seek damages for lost wages.

Whatever your goals may be, make sure you communicate them to your lawyer so they can fight for what’s important to you.

Don’t Accept the First Offer

When the insurance company makes an initial settlement offer, you mustn’t accept it. The first offer is usually much lower than what you’re entitled to. Instead, let your lawyer negotiate on your behalf to get you the maximum compensation possible.

Here’s why you shouldn’t jump at the first offer:

• You don’t know your actual costs yet: Especially if your injuries are severe, the full impact might not be immediately apparent. You could need ongoing medical care, physical therapy, or even surgery down the line. Accepting a lowball offer now could leave you financially strapped later.
• They’re counting on your urgency: Insurance companies know some people are desperate for cash after an accident. They might try to capitalize on your situation by offering a quick but inadequate settlement. Don’t let their tactics pressure you into a bad deal.
• You deserve fair compensation: Your pain, suffering, lost wages, and future medical needs all have value. The first offer is unlikely to account for everything. By waiting, you allow your lawyer to build a strong case that reflects the actual cost of your injuries.

It is also important to not give a recorded statement to the insurance company before speaking with your lawyer. The insurance adjuster may try to get you to say something that can be used against you later on.

To settle a personal injury claim, you must have an experienced and qualified personal injury lawyer on your side.

If you want to settle a personal injury claim, you need to have a good lawyer because they will help you get the most money possible. Additionally, never accept the first offer from the insurance company, and don’t give a recorded statement before talking to your lawyer.