3 Tips When Seeking A Pain And Suffering Auto Settlement

Auto accidents can destroy cars and cause serious injuries that last for years. If you've been injured in a car accident, you may qualify for pain and suffering for both physical and emotional injuries. Winning pain and suffering settlements, however, can be difficult, so make sure you follow these three tips when you are seeking a pain and suffering auto settlement.

Hire an Accident Attorney

For minor accidents, an auto accidents lawyer may not be necessary, but if injuries are involved, you should considering hiring a lawyer, especially if you are pursing pain and suffering. Some injuries may be severe, but they tend to heal without long-term problems, such as a broken leg. However, some injuries are less obvious. For example, if someone's back is injured in an accident, causing partial paralysis, this may affect them the rest of their life. They won't have a few doctor bills. They may have ongoing expenses, including wheelchairs, rehab, etc. Emotional pain and suffering is even harder to prove because there may be little "proof." Emotional pain and suffering can include mood disorders, overall reduced well-being, loss of interest in old activities, etc. An attorney is your best bet at proving pain and suffering.

Be Private About Your Life and the Accident

While waiting for your settlement, be mindful about to whom you speak, especially in regards to the accident. Again, this is where an attorney can help because they do all the talking for you. Without an attorney, you'd have to speak with both insurance carriers yourself. Be upfront and provide your attorney with every pertinent piece of info, but don't talk about the accident with anyone else. Even a small admission of guilt may lead to your claim being denied. While you're at it, be careful about what you post on social media. Post nothing about the accident, and make your account private, so nothing can be used against you. A quick photo of you smiling with friends may be used to argue against depression.

Keep Seeking Medical Treatment

If you have been injured, you should seek medical treatment quickly. If you don't visit the ER right after the accident, schedule an appointment soon with your primary care physician. Waiting to seek treatment can quickly derail your claim, and the insurance carrier will argue your injuries weren't severe enough to seek medical attention or qualify for pain and suffering. Once your doctor has set a treatment plan, follow it completely. This will help prove your injuries are severe, and it will give your attorney lots of medical notes and diagnoses to use to win your case.

If you've been injured in an auto accident, you may be seriously injured, but some injuries are less obvious and last for the rest of your life. For more information regarding auto accidents and settlements, contact an accident attorney in your area today.