The best way to improve your odds of a fair payout from an insurer is to contact a personal injury lawyer and let a professional deal with the legions of trained representatives and attorneys working for the insurance company.
Although a lawyer is your best bet, there are some tips you can try to help you increase your settlement amount:
1. Be prepared. Be able to explain the reason for your claim and to prove the value of your pain and suffering with specific points.
2. Save receipts and medical bills, recent pay stubs, mileage driving to and from the doctor, and anything else to show the value of your claim.
3. Stay cool. When you get a lowball offer, stay calm and be polite. The rep you speak with may only be authorized to offer up to a certain amount. If necessary, ask to speak to a different claim adjuster or supervisor.
4. Go the distance. Insurers KNOW you’re facing a growing pile of medical expenses and unpaid bills. They count on the financial stress and frustration with the process to work in their favor. Don’t fold, and don’t sign a check for less than you deserve.
5. Know what your claim is worth. Some costs are easy to identify, like your hospital bills and car repairs. Calculating lost wages and pain and suffering is far more complicated.
Additional personal injury claim costs to consider:
- Property damage
- Car rental
- Deductible
- Hospital deductible
- Non-prescription medical expenses (bandages, braces, etc.)
- Chiropractic care
- Future medical expenses
- Subrogation
