Back in the day, an emotional courtroom showdown resolved almost all accident claims. Today, over 95 percent of such claims settle out of court. So, in most cases, a settlement is coming. The amount of that settlement largely depends on what victims do in the days following a car accident or other injury. accident or other injury. 1. Avoid a Slow Start Usually, because of a mild or serious brain injury, most victims aren’t thinking clearly in the immediate wake of an accident. As such, they’re prone to do and say things that hurt their claims later. It’s very important to see a doctor ASAP, and in no case later than twenty-four hours after an injury. Alas, many victims don’t take this important step. In fact, many victims refuse medical treatment at the scene. Since adrenaline temporarily masks pain, many victims don’t “feel” injured. So, only a doctor can tell how badly you are, or aren’t, hurt. Additionally, some victims give statements to insurance adjusters or apologize for causing the wreck. These are big no-nos. Insurance adjusters know how to twist your words, and a lawyer can twist an apology into an admission of liability. 2. Work with a Lawyer This point is short and sweet. Bar none, the best way to maximize a settlement is to work with a lawyer. Victims with lawyers get about 40 percent more money than victims without lawyers. Book a free consultation with an accident lawyer near you through AskLegally. 3. Be aware Of the Collateral Source Rule This complex rule varies in different states. So, we won’t go into the details. However, victims should at least be aware of this rule. Assume Ben hits Jerry, and Jerry, who suffers a catastrophic injury, accrues $100,000 in medical bills. Jerry’s lawyer negotiates with the hospital and reduces the bill to $75,000. In some states, for court purposes, Ben must still pay $100,000. If that’s the case, Jerry might get to keep the leftover $25k. Knowing exactly how much money you have coming helps you make better financial choices and maximize your accident settlement. 4. Be Patient As mentioned, most civil cases settle out of court. However, almost none of these cases settle immediately. Instead, insurance company lawyers find ways to delay the process. The longer it holds onto that settlement check, the more interest the company earns. Additionally, the best evidence in an accident claim often isn’t immediately available. Weak evidence means a low settlement. 5. Rely on Your Attorney If you choose a lawyer who is experienced, dedicated to the practice of injury law, and accessible, you should rely on your lawyer to work for you. These attorneys are excellent negotiators who know when to compromise and when to dig in their heels. These lawyers are also able to win cases at trial, so the insurance company wants to avoid a trial at almost any cost. Accident survivors have already been victimized once. There’s no reason to let an insurance company victimize you again.