Personal injury claims can range in severity from mild to quite serious. If you were injured in an accident, you might be wondering what will go into the process of the insurance company determining a settlement. The following are a few things a claims adjuster will take a look at.
The At-Fault Individual’s Story
The at-fault party’s insurance company isn’t just going to take your word that their client was responsible for an accident that caused your injuries. The claims adjuster will speak with the insured individual directly to get his or her story about the incident. If it matches up with your story, that could make the process a little easier. The adjuster will also typically take a look at the police report to see how it compares to both stories.
Your History
Claims adjusters will take a look at your history. Have you filed a personal injury claim in the past? What was the outcome? Does your history contain any dirt that could show you are an unreliable source or someone who is just looking for quick, easy money? The adjuster could take a look at the way you’re living. If your claim includes costs related to a back injury, but the adjuster finds you jumping on a trampoline, that could downplay your injuries to a great degree.
What Your Medical Bills Look Like
The claims adjuster will take a look at your medical bills to see how much they add up to. If the amount is quite large, your settlement will most likely also be large. If you don’t have much in terms of medical care and the doctors don’t foresee future medical care, the settlement may not be quite as big. Everything your injuries require will also play a role. For example, someone who needs surgery, physical therapy, prescription medication, occupational therapy, and a variety of other types of medical care will probably receive a larger settlement than someone who simply has one emergency room bill.
How Much You Suffered
Some damages include emotional suffering. How much pain and emotional turmoil did you suffer because of your injuries? The adjuster will take a look at relationship losses, the loss of certain abilities, and other similar issues.
Putting It All Together
After the claims adjuster has had a look at all of these things, plus more, he or she will come up with a settlement offer. Contact a lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer in Memphis, TN from Darrell Castle and Associates, PLLC, today for assistance in knowing what to accept and when to fight for more.
Comments are closed.