When it comes to filing a personal injury claim, it is important to prepare yourself for speaking with insurance adjusters. These individuals work against you when making a settlement offer, this is why it is helpful to negotiate your settlement with an experienced attorney on your side.
Attorney beverly R. Caruthers has over three decades of experience helping her clients seek compensation through settlement negotiation. The settlement process can be long and complicated, when you work with our law firm we are there every step of the way. We provide free consultations with a top level personal injury attorney so that you can protect yourself.
Listed below are some tips shared by Legal Desire that can help you get the most out of your personal injury settlement.
Do Not Delay the Claim Process
Begin the claim process as soon as possible after the accident. This will give you the best chance to get the total amount of compensation that you are entitled to. The longer you wait, the more likely evidence will be lost, or witnesses’ memories will fade.
Determine the total damages to establish a baseline for negotiation. It should include the cost of present and future medical treatment, lost wages, and other costs associated with your physical and mental recovery, lifestyle changes, and any other economic damages. You will also need to factor in pain and suffering, which can be more challenging to quantify.
Get all relevant documentation in order before beginning negotiations. The documents needed include:
- police reports
- medical records
- bills
- witnesses’ testimonies
- video records, if any, etc.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Hire a personal injury lawyer from bencrump.com if you have any questions or need help with your claim, as an attorney is your best bet to get a fair settlement of your injuries and material damages. An experienced attorney will know how to build a strong case and negotiate with the insurance company. They will also be able to handle all of the paperwork and legal details so that you can focus on your recovery.
Personal injury lawyers know the value of your claim and will fight for the best possible outcome. They will also make sure that you do not settle for less than you are entitled to. Never try to negotiate with the insurance company on your own, as they will likely take advantage of you.
Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not give the insurance company any reason to think that you were at fault for the accident. Do not say so if you think you may have been partially responsible for a car crash. Instead, let your lawyer handle all communications with the insurance company.
Be careful of what you say to the adjuster. They are trained to get you to say things they can later use against you. Also, do not sign anything without consulting with your lawyer first. Finally, remember that the insurance company is not on your side and is looking for any reason to deny or reduce your claim.
Understand Your Claim Value
It is vital to have a clear understanding of the value of your claim before beginning negotiations. The insurance company will likely make you an initial offer that is much lower than what you are entitled to. They do this in the hopes that you will accept it without knowing any better.
Understand Losses Associated with the Personal Injury
Many types of losses can be associated with a personal injury. These include:
- medical expenses
- lost wages
- pain and suffering
- emotional distress
- loss of consortium
Do not let the insurance company lowball you on any of these damages. But, if they do, be sure to have documentation to back up your claims
Emphasize Emotional Damages
Emotional damages are often more challenging to quantify than economic damages. However, they can be just as impactful on your life. So be sure to emphasize the emotional toll the accident has taken on you and your family.
If the injury or accident led to anxiety, depression, PTSD, or flashbacks, mention these to the insurance company. These emotional damages can significantly impact your life and should be compensated accordingly.
Do Not Rush to Accept the First Offer
The first offer from the insurance company is almost always low. They do this in the hopes that you will accept it without knowing any better. Do not take the first offer without consulting with a lawyer first.
You should also avoid accepting any quick settlements. These are usually much lower than what you are entitled to. The insurance company will often pressure you to take a quick settlement but resist this temptation.
Have a Medical Report
Your medical report will be a key piece of evidence in your case. Get a detailed report from your doctor outlining all of your injuries and how they have impacted your life.
The insurance company will use this report to determine the value of your claim. If you do not have a solid medical report, it will be more difficult to get the total value of your claim.
Put All Agreements in Writing
Once you have reached an agreement with the insurance company, write it. This will help to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications down the road. If the insurance company tries to change the terms of the agreement after you have already agreed to it, consult with a lawyer before signing anything.
Avoid Social Media
Do not post anything about your accident or injuries on social media. The insurance company will likely monitor your social media accounts and use anything you post against you. Set your privacy settings to the highest level possible if you must use social media.
Spanish Speaking Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
Spanish-speaking individuals can have a more difficult time seeking justice in their personal injury cases due to language barriers. This causes them to not take action against those who have left them with financial devastation and physical trauma. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, our team refuses to let a language barrier affect your right to justice and compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and is in need of Spanish-speaking legal advice, our team is here for you.
Personal Injury Law Office in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has suffered an injury, experienced loss of income, or are unable to work due to a car accident, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert in your personal injury case. Whether you missed work due to an injury or due to not having access to a vehicle, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers can help you!
Caruthers Law Firm
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 400
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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In the aftermath of an accident that leaves you or a loved one injured, it is crucial to know where to turn for support and justice. The Caruthers Law Firm stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment to the cause of pursuing justice for injury victims. With a track record that speaks volumes about our dedication to excellence and passion for our clients, we have garnered recognition throughout the Houston area as a trusted name in the legal community. When you or a family member suffers an injury due to the negligence of another, the need for an attorney who is not just competent but also recognized for their excellence becomes paramount. The Houston personal injury attorney at The Caruthers Law Firm fits that bill precisely. We have earned accolades and trust from our clients because we don not just handle cases; we champion causes. Our cases frequently involve traumatic, life-altering events, such as the loss of a loved one, and our relentless pursuit of justice ensures our clients receive the compensation necessary to secure their financial future. Our dedicated efforts have successfully secured over $50 million in settlements for our clients, and our commitment to excellence has brought us national recognition, particularly in fields like birth injury law. Whether your life has been upended by a tragic accident or the negligence of another party, you can confide in Caruthers Law Firm to handle your case with the utmost skill, dedication, and compassion in your time of need. Every case we undertake is treated with the gravity and importance it deserves, and we strive to provide the best possible representation to our clients. At Caruthers Law Firm, our attorneys boast an impressive array of knowledge and expertise in various practice areas, including personal injury, criminal defense, wrongful death, and more. We fully acknowledge that each case is unique, and we value the individual concerns and needs of our clients. This understanding leads us to craft tailored legal strategies that address each case is distinctive challenges. When you choose Caruthers Law Firm as your legal representation, you can expect a high degree of professionalism, unwavering integrity, and an unparalleled commitment from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates for your rights, dedicated to securing the justice you deserve.
For over three decades, Beverly R. Caruthers has been on an unwavering mission to provide her clients with top-notch, tenacious, and compassionate legal services and representation. Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has not only amassed extensive experience but has also consistently delivered high-quality legal assistance to those who have sought her counsel. Her journey to legal expertise began with academic distinction, having graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Tougaloo College, followed by the acquisition of her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. With a primary focus on Personal Injury, Criminal Law, and Business Law, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers has honed her legal acumen in these pivotal areas. Complementing her knowledge and skills, The Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers is fortified by a collaborative team of seasoned and highly qualified attorneys. Together, they work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for each and every client they serve. In the Caruthers family, the pursuit of legal excellence seems to be a cherished tradition. Briona Caruthers, following in the footsteps of her older brother and colleague, hails from Missouri City, Texas, where she graduated from Elkins High School in 2015. Venturing outside her hometown, she spent four years at Hofstra University in New York, where she diligently earned her Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies in Business in 2019. After her academic journey in New York, she returned to her roots in Houston, Texas. There, she attended the same illustrious institution where her mother, Beverly R. Caruthers, and her brothers, Eddie and Parker Caruthers, had studied—the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. In 2022, Briona graduated Cum Laude from TSU, thereby continuing the family legacy. Beyond her legal pursuits, Briona finds solace in retail therapy and enjoys exploring the world through her travels when she is not in the office, fervently advocating for her clients rights. Parker Caruthers, another member of the Caruthers family, was born and raised in Missouri City, Texas, where he completed his high school education at Clements High School in 2012. His educational journey took him to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in 2017. Parker commitment to legal studies led him to the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at TSU, from where he graduated in 2021. During his time in law school, Parker legal prowess shone through as he secured victory in the Helen Dawn Williams Mock Trial competition, all while gaining valuable experience through internships at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Opting to take a different path by not pursuing prosecution, Parker joined Caruthers Law Firm in 2021. Beyond the legal realm, Parker passions extend to sports fandom and his role as a proud dog owner. At the Caruthers Law Firm, we take a refreshingly transparent and candid approach when assessing our potential clients circumstances. We believe in clear, honest, and direct communication, leaving aside the legal jargon to speak in terms that our clients can readily understand. Each client is treated as a unique individual, receiving personalized and attentive care throughout their legal journey with us.
We are immensely grateful to each and every individual who wholeheartedly contributed to the success of "The Christmas Toy Drive and Giveaway" and "The Back to School Giveaway" right here in the vibrant city of Houston. Your support has made a profound difference in the lives of countless local children, and it is a testament to the incredible community spirit that defines our city. At The Caruthers Law Firm, we take great pride in being active sponsors of these important initiatives, which focus on providing crucial resources to Houstons youth. Some of the recipients come from families struggling with limited income, making it challenging for them to provide the necessary school supplies for their children. For others, the prospect of a joyous Christmas was a distant dream due to a lack of toys. In these circumstances, we aimed to make a meaningful and positive impact on these children and their families. It is through the unwavering support and dedication of our local community that we were able to realize this vision. We encourage you to consider joining us in this noble cause and be a part of the change in the lives of Houston families. Your involvement can take various forms, whether through donating items, contributing funds, or taking the initiative to organize a collection drive within your organization, church, club, or local community. Your support will undoubtedly go a long way in touching the lives of those in need, ensuring that every child in our city can look forward to a brighter future. By working together, we not only provide essential items but also instill a sense of hope, compassion, and generosity within our beloved Houston community. Together, we can create a stronger, more caring, and inclusive community, one that continues to uplift and empower those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of this vital mission.
