The most reliable way to avoid needing to reopen your car accident claim is to take steps to protect your rights from the get-go. Following these tips can preserve your claim and put you in a favorable position to receive maximum compensation. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Immediately Contacting a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a car crash gives you peace of mind knowing that your claim is in good hands. A lawyer can fight for the maximum compensation and push for the best resolution possible through negotiations with an insurance company or defense lawyer. Hiring a lawyer also gives you an advocate, ally, and trusted advisor to rely on when making critical life, personal, and financial decisions that may affect your rights. And it ensures that you won’t miss any deadlines that impact your ability to seek compensation. Never Accept a Settlement Offer Without Talking to a Lawyer If you have already received a settlement offer from an insurance representative or at-fault party’s lawyer, do not agree to it or sign any papers they send you until you’ve consulted with an experienced car accident attorney. Settlement offers made directly to accident victims like you almost always fall well short of the true value of your claim. If you agree to it, you could sacrifice your rights to receive far more money later. Contact a lawyer immediately and explain your situation. In nearly all cases, a skilled lawyer can take over negotiations and get you far more money than what the insurer or defense lawyer has offered. Understand the Terms of a Settlement Agreement Before Accepting A car accident lawyer must present you with all settlement offers from an insurance company or other party. The lawyer should also explain the pros and cons of the settlement to you in clear terms. Most car accident lawyers excel at laying out the finer points of a settlement in language you can understand. But you must speak up if anything feels unclear. The decision whether to settle belongs to you and you alone. A lawyer can guide and advise you, but you must make the final call. So be sure you understand what accepting the settlement means for your accident claim, and don’t decide until your lawyer answers your questions.