Settling Car Accident and Personal Injury Claim

The United States has an average of 6 million car accidents every year, which is one of the reasons why there are hundreds of injury claims in courts. Injury claims, however, hardly reach litigation. Most parties will agree on a settlement to avoid the tedious task of court processes and extra expenses. 

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles have recorded about 400,000 car accidents in 2017 alone. That means Florida contributes at least 20% of the nationwide car accident statistics. So, if you ever live in the area, it is in your best interest to hire a Florida accident attorney, such as one from the VG Law Group, to settle a pending or possible accident claim. 

What are the initial steps in a settlement?

Whether you’re the defendant or the petitioner, a settlement offer is always the best way to resolve a claim. That expedites a case and saves you from the trouble of undergoing a trial that may take a long time before it can be resolved. Here are the primary steps to take when you are involved in an accident:

Document everything.

Settlement claims require the computation of damages and injury. As such, you must record everything, from photos of the accident to injuries sustained. Documentation is also essential when it comes to filing the papers so that when evidence is needed, you can provide them as soon as possible. 

Call your Attorney.

Accidents come unexpectedly, which is the reason why you should retain a Florida accident attorney. Lawyers know the best course of action when it comes to legal actions. So, as soon as the accident happens, call your lawyer. 

How to negotiate a settlement claim?

For the most part, negotiation can be taxing, and it requires a lot of patience. Negotiation involves reaching a common agreement between another party who also wants his interests met. As such, there are standard practices as to how to settle a deal quickly. 

Know your Worth.

Before undergoing a negotiation meeting, it is essential that you already have an estimate as to the amount of the claim that you know you deserve. That can be found by adding up and computing any expenses incurred due to the accident. By understanding the average amount of what you expect to receive as compensation, you won’t have to get the short end of the stick. 

Agreements should be in writing.

Even without having yet reached an agreement, you should always take notes about all the offers made. Then, when everything is settled, make sure to get everything on paper and have all the parties signed therein. That is to avoid any possible misunderstanding and conflict when the agreement is sought to be claimed.

Settlement claims take a lot of processes, but it does not mean that it should be challenging. It’s by far the best and most effective way to avoid litigation and more expenses. With the right attorney and the right amount of patience, reaching an agreement is not far off.