Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and scary, and if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so it’s important to take the right steps to maximize your settlement. Find an advocate who will fight tirelessly on your behalf, and follow these four steps to ensure you get the best possible settlement for your case.

Step 1: Gather Evidence

The strength of your car accident claim depends largely on the evidence you collect. If you’re physically able, gathering evidence at the scene can significantly impact your case. This includes:

• Taking photos and videos of the accident scene - Capture pictures of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries.

• Get a police report - Always call the police after an accident. Their report provides an official account of the crash, which can be valuable for your claim.

• Exchange information - Collect the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.

• Talk to witnesses - If anyone saw the accident happen, get their statements and contact information. Witness testimony can support your version of events.

• Seek immediate medical attention - Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash or internal trauma may not show symptoms right away. A medical record creates a direct link between the accident and your injuries.

Step 2: Follow Your Treatment Plan

After a car accident, your health comes first, and your medical treatment plays a critical role in your claim. Insurance companies look for gaps or inconsistencies in treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident, and follow all your doctor’s orders. In terms of documentation, be sure to save copies of your visit notes, prescriptions, and other medical records and bills. Following your doctor’s treatment plan not only will help you recover quicker, but it also demonstrates that your injuries are legitimate and require compensation.

Step 3: Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer

Insurance companies have a team of attorneys on their side and will often try to settle for the lowest amount possible. Unfortunately, without your own legal representation, you risk accepting a lowball offer that doesn’t fully cover your damages. Level the playing field by hiring an experienced car accident attorney who will fight on your behalf. What’s more, most Texas personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay a cent unless they win your case.

Step 4: Negotiate

Once your lawyer has gathered evidence, calculated your damages, and built a strong case, the negotiation process begins. The goal is to maximize your settlement and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries. Let your attorney handle all communications with your insurance company, and be patient. Settlements can take time, but your attorney will do everything in their power to fight for a full and fair settlement.

Contact Us a McKinney Vos PLLC with Questions

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Texas car accident, don’t leave your settlement to chance. Contact a trusted personal injury attorney today. Our team at McKinney Vos offers free, no-commitment consultations to discuss your case and see how we can help. Call our Austin office at 512-457-8991 to learn more and ask your questions.