Maximizing compensation in a Chicago personal injury case involves several key strategies that can make a significant difference in the outcome. From documenting expenses, working with an experienced and skilled personal injury lawyer, to providing evidence to your lawyer, are all vital to help build a strong claim. The best way to secure maximum compensation? Hire a lawyer from Lerner and Rowe. A study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC) found that people with legal representation in personal injury cases receive settlements 3.5 times larger on average compared to pro se cases.
This blog offers guidance from our Chicago personal injury lawyers on maximizing compensation in a Chicago personal injury case.
Steps to Take When Filing a Chicago Personal Injury Case
1.Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer Right Away
Don’t wait until after the medical bills start piling up to look for a lawyer. Start working with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago, such as those at Lerner and Rowe, as soon as possible after your accident. Here’s why:
- A lawyer knows how to handle negotiations with your insurance company to secure fair settlement on your behalf. This allows you to focus on recovering from your injuries.
- If the insurance coverage is not adequate, your lawyer can quickly pivot the insurance negotiations into a personal injury claim.
- A lawyer will review and help find evidence related to your accident. They can help with locating accident witness statements, finding footage from the accident, and compiling your evidence.
- An attorney will use evidence in your claim to determine fault. They will then pursue damages from the liable party.
By adopting this comprehensive approach, you can make more informed and timely choices regarding settlement or trial. Remember, the statute of limitations begins once you are aware of your injury, so acting quickly is essential when filing a Chicago personal injury case.
2. Gather Information and Records Related to the Accident
Detailed and accurate records are the core of every personal injury case. Here are the steps you need to take in to make sure you have proper documentation:
- Gather the accident report and/or the police report. This serves as an official recount of what occurred.
- Collect your medical records. Make sure you have documentation that shows the full scope of your injuries, the date that the injury was incurred or discovered, and the total amount of your medical bills and expenses related to the injury.
- Keep track of things like time off of work as you might be entitled to compensation for your lost wages.
- Document non-economic damages, such as “loss of enjoyment of life,” which may not have a fixed dollar amount but can be supported through counseling appointments and other relevant documentation.
- Make sure to fill out paperwork related to the accident and make a copy for yourself. These can be given to your attorney if you decide to pursue a case.
3. File Your Claim On Time
Filing claims and accident reports quickly is essential if you want to preserve your right to compensation in a personal injury case. In Illinois, personal injury claims typically must be filed within two years of the incident. Certain matters, however, may change the timeline—which is why it’s key to move fast.
Insurance companies have their own deadlines for accepting claims, in addition to these legal and procedural deadlines. A delay in the filing process will only cause issues or rejections from insurers and slow down payments altogether.
Carefully consider accepting an insurance settlement. While it might cover your medical bills, it might not cover lost wages and other expenses you incurred. A lawyer can help you determine if you want to take your case to trial or accept an insurance settlement.
4. Do Not Accept a Settlement Offer
If you were injured in an accident due to the negligence of another, do not accept an insurance settlement. The settlement likely will not fully cover your losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Accepting an insurance settlement ends legal avenues for further pursuing your case. This means you cannot file a lawsuit later. Quick settlements are a way insurance companies minimize their payouts. Accepting a settlement offer from the insurance company may not account for long-term costs, such as extended time off work or future medical needs like rehabilitation.
Chicago slip and fall cases can be challenging as they often involve multiple parties, such as property owners and businesses, and require proving liability, sometimes with the involvement of insurance companies.
File Your Chicago Personal Injury Case with Lerner and Rowe
Let Lerner and Rowe guide you through your case to maximize compensation. One of the worst mistakes any plaintiff could make is not pursuing a case fully. As tempting as the ease of a quick settlement may be, this often comes with giving up much-needed and possible compensation. With many years of experience in personal injury, Lerner and Rowe Chicago personal injury lawyers have helped their clients through making informed decisions and fighting for the best possible results in their cases.
Lerner and Rowe’s team is available 24/7 to schedule your free consultation with a Chicago personal injury attorney. You can reach out to us by phone at 844-977-1900 and online through encrypted online form or LiveChat.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.