How to Maximize an Auto Settlement

It was not your fault, but you were involved in an auto accident that left your car destroyed and your body injured. Maybe you broke a bone, needed surgery or suffered soft tissue damage that doesn't show up on an x-ray but certainly shows up as daily pain. In addition, you missed work as you recovered from the accident and injuries. The question now is how do you make certain you receive the full compensation you are entitled to? Follow these steps to keep the insurance adjuster honest.

Things You'll Need

• Medical bills
• Medical records
• Invoice for car repairs
• Proof of lost income
• Proof of other damages

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Instructions

Maximize Your Auto Settlement

• 1

  Gather copies of every medical bill you incur in connection with your injuries, including those from physicians, clinics, surgical centers, anesthesiologists, physical therapists, radiologists and chiropractors.

• 2

  Gather copies of all medical records that are related to treatment you received for your auto accident injuries.

• 3

  Obtain a statement from your employer that verifies your salary and how much work time you missed due to your injuries and recovery.

• 4

  Add up your total medical expenses and multiply that number by four. This is the amount of damages you will claim for your pain and suffering.

• 5

  Add up any other damages you can relate to the accident, including such things as compensation for your inability to perform household chores or compensation if your injuries caused you to miss any important life events.

• 6

  Prepare a written letter to the insurance company of the driver responsible for causing the accident. Your letter should describe the accident and include documentation supporting each of your damage claims as described above.

• 7

  Mail the letter to the insurance claims adjuster.