You are probably aware that you may be able to seek compensation by filing a personal injury claim if another person causes you harm in Connecticut in a motorcycle accident, car accident, or slip-and-fall on someone else's property. Despite the fact that this is true, certain mistakes have the potential to entirely derail your claim and even cost you the entire case.
When you are prepared to file a personal injury claim in Connecticut, it is advantageous to retain an experienced personal injury attorney. Typically, an attorney possesses years of experience and can assist you in obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled. It is normal for an individual who has suffered a critical injury in a negligently caused accident to want to maximize their compensation for the injuries sustained. This settlement signifies that you'll be able to resume your life following unemployment, including the ability to pay your medical expenses and continue on with your daily activities.
Brandon J. Broderick's personal injury attorneys in Connecticut are at your service to provide assistance and respond to any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a case evaluation and free consultation.
The following article will discuss what can be beneficial to increasing the value of your CT personal injury case.
What Steps Can I Take to Maximize My Personal Injury Settlement in Connecticut?
There are a few things that you should focus on after an accident that results in an injury in Connecticut. The following are things that can be beneficial to your case and help you get the most out of a personal injury settlement in CT.
#1: Make Sure That You Receive Medical Attention After an Accident in CT
In order to maximize your injury settlement, it is crucial that you seek medical attention without delay following your accident. Medical treatment provides medical records, documentation, and other evidence to support the severity of your injuries, in addition to initiating the healing process. At this point in time, it is important that you document your injuries, as doing so will establish that the accident was the direct cause of your injuries. Delaying treatment may allow the defense to raise doubts regarding the manner in which your injuries occurred.
The previously mentioned advice remains true throughout the process of recovery. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding all prescribed medical treatments. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions and take all prescribed medications and rehabilitative therapies. Attend all scheduled appointments for physical therapy or other recommended treatments. Your absence from appointments may indicate a lack of dedication to your medical treatment or that you are not as severely injured as you claim.
When seeking medical attention, be certain to provide your medical team with detailed information regarding your injuries. Provide the nurses and physicians with information regarding your injuries, pain level, and the manner in which the pain impacts you, even if it is initially mild. Be sure to emphasize that the injuries sustained were not unexpected and were the direct result of the accident. It is crucial to provide accurate details regarding the impact of the injury on your ability to manage any pre-existing conditions.
Avoid exaggerating. It is not necessary to exaggerate your injuries when communicating with medical professionals; hence, plain communication is sufficient. If you are deposed or required to provide a statement to a third party, be forthright and honest.
#2: Don’t Trust the Insurance Company or Accept a Low-Ball Offer From Them
Relying on the assistance of an insurance company is among the most serious mistakes that individuals make after being involved in an accident. Never sign a release claim or provide an insurance company with a recorded statement. As for-profit organizations, insurance companies have an incentive to pay you the bare minimum for your claim or nothing at all if possible. They will most likely try to come in when you are most vulnerable to offer a low-ball amount of compensation that will leave you without enough to cover the long-term impact of your injury. Never place your faith in the insurance company to maximize the benefits of your claim. It is beneficial to seek the assistance of an experienced CT personal injury attorney who will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf in order to safeguard your settlement.
#3: Keep Copies of Your Employment and Medical Records
Maintaining copies of your employment records is another way to maximize your injury settlement. This may consist of pay receipt copies and statements from your employer detailing your hourly or salary rate, the number of hours worked, and the earnings you have missed out on due to your inability to work.
This way, you can recover the entire amount of compensation that was lost due to your inability to work. In addition, this may support your claim for compensation for loss of potential future earnings. This may consist of salary increases, bonuses, contributions to retirement savings accounts, and other similar benefits.
#4: Take Photographs and Keep a Journal
Memories fade as the personal injury claims process can be lengthy. In the aftermath of the accident, photograph any evidence that may be accessible to you, including details such as the apparel and shoes you were wearing and any damaged property (e.g., a motorcycle or car). Until the wounds have completely healed, it is also vital to take photographs of them every few days. The use of these images as proof will support your claim.
Maintain an accident journal to record the events and consequences following the accident, adding to the photographs. Document any relevant details regarding the accident and the healing process, including the extent of your suffering and any appointments you attended that day. You may forget these particulars several months later; therefore, the journal will be of great assistance.
#5: Avoid Using Social Media
All content shared on social media platforms may be introduced as evidence in the event of a settlement negotiation or trial, should the case proceed to court. Insurance investigators will examine your personal and professional social media profiles, as well as those of your family and friends, in an effort to identify any evidence that might dispute the injuries you claim to have sustained. For instance, the insurance adjuster could use your claim that you sustained a back injury in a vehicle accident and then post about a five-mile run as evidence against you. It is highly recommended that you avoid using social media platforms, particularly any publicly accessible accounts, during the claims process.
#6: Appearance Matters; Be Sure to Make a Good Impression
Throughout the course of filing a claim for personal injury, you might be required to provide a statement, be deposed, or testify. When this occurs, exercise caution in your choice of words. Avoid using profanity, and, despite being under pressure, make every effort to maintain your composure when questioned.
Appearances matter. Even in the absence of a trial, the opposing attorneys and an insurance adjuster will assess your reputation in that context, which will influence their decision to reach a settlement. Wear appropriate attire and avoid wearing anything that may cause offense to others.
Attorney at Law Brandon J. Broderick Can Assist You With Your CT Personal Injury Claim Today
We get it. Accidents are the last thing on anyone's mind, let alone the possibility of filing a personal injury lawsuit. Still, unforeseen accidents can affect your health, well-being, and finances, causing you and your family to experience panic, anxiety, and worry. You have the right to seek compensation for the harm and suffering you have experienced as a result of someone else's carelessness or negligence. Why engage in negotiations and interactions with insurance companies by yourself?
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we prioritize results, compassion, and outstanding client service. We are one of the top personal injury law firms in Connecticut for this reason. Based on our extensive history of success, you can rely on us to take the most effective approach and diligently work to enhance your quality of life. Our attorneys have decades of experience representing victims in all types of personal injury cases, including workplace accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and car accidents.
We are here for you and to help you move forward. We offer free consultations and are available to assist you day or night. Contact us today; we look forward to helping you.