How to Maximize Your Settlement After a Company Vehicle Accident
Suffering injuries in an accident involving a company vehicle can leave you with serious injuries and substantial financial losses. It is critical that you understand your rights, so you can exercise them and ensure you receive the maximum settlement you deserve. Below, our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer outlines some steps to take so you obtain maximum compensation.
Document the Crash and Resulting Injuries
If possible, you should collect as much documentation and evidence as you can while you are still at the scene. Take pictures of the position of the vehicles, the damage to the vehicles involved, and anything that may indicate how the crash occurred, such as skid marks on the road or bumpers that have fallen off of your car. Also take photos of your injuries so you can prove how severe they initially were. Locate any eyewitnesses to the accident and ask them for their name and contact information (do not rely on the investigating police officer to put this information in the crash report – they rarely do.
Seek Medical Treatment
Company vehicles are often larger than passenger cars and so, it is critical that you seek medical treatment immediately. If paramedics do not arrive at the scene, visit an emergency room or an urgent care as soon as you are able to leave. Seeing a doctor will document your injuries, including the nature and severity of them. Also make sure you follow through with all recommended treatment options. This shows you are trying to prevent your injuries from becoming worse and are doing everything possible to get better.
Keep Organized Records
Keep any documentation you receive regarding the accident in a safe place so it is easy to collect later. This documentation can include records of lost wages, expenses, the diagnosis you received, and any treatment you needed. Also keep a journal of your injuries, how they are progressing, and the impact they have had on your daily life.
Do Not Accept an Early Settlement
In the days, and possibly even hours, after an accident the insurer covering the liable party may contact you and offer a settlement. These early settlement offers are never enough to fully cover the cost of your injuries and other losses. At this early point, an injured person rarely is able to know the full extent of their injuries and medical care that they will need. Always speak to a San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer before accepting a settlement or signing anything. Do not orally agree to a settlement agreement over the phone before speaking with an accident lawyer.
Determine if Punitive Damages are Available
Punitive damages are awarded when defendants exhibit gross negligence or maliciousness. They are rare in personal injury cases but when they apply, they can maximize your settlement. A lawyer can also advise if punitive damages are applicable in your case.
Call Our Company Vehicle Accident Lawyer in San Antonio
Our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer at the Law Office of Israel Garcia is well-versed in negligence law and can advise on how to strengthen your case. While you focus on your recovery, our seasoned attorney can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf and uncover other sources of compensation so you obtain a full and fair settlement. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or chat with us online to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/CP/htm/CP.41.htm
