How Car Accident Victims Make Their Demands Known
The word "victim" used to describe the innocent party in a car crash sounds a bit problematic. However, victims in car accidents don't also have to be victimized. Victims can take back their health, their financial situation, their peace of mind, and their power. A demand letter can be the perfect way to do that. Read on and find out more.
Demand Letters Are Informative
Until your personal injury lawyer sends the defendants a demand letter, they may not know the full scope of your losses. This letter makes the other driver's insurers aware that you won't settle for just any quick and small sum of money. It tells them also that you have legal representation. That means you have someone on your side who knows how much you are owed.
These letters contain a lot of information about your damages. Here is a list of what is usually included in a demand letter (in no certain order):
- A statement about who was at fault and how that can be proven.
- A list of evidence that can prove fault and damages. That might include the accident report, photographs, videos, witness statements, and more.
- A list of your damages. That often includes medical expenses, lost wages, the wrecked vehicle, and more.
- The amount of money you are asking for in damages to settle the case outside of court.
Demand Letter Considerations
There is no single way to word a demand letter. Your lawyer will create a custom-made letter that applies to your unique situation. For example, if your medical expenses are extremely high because of extensive injuries, your demand letter might include an entry about future medical treatment costs.
Another consideration is the demand itself. You and your personal injury lawyer will calculate how much money you are owed by adding up your damages. However, your lawyer will suggest adding some to that amount so there is room for negotiating.
Victims are urged not to assume that the demand letter will result in an instant offer that meets their needs. The letter is effective in communicating your demands, but most settlements require some negotiating after the demand is sent.
Avoid adding emotional appeals. However, don't hesitate to mention the emotional toll the accident has had on you and your family. The way the accident made you feel is important, however, so speak to your personal injury lawyer about using a pain journal to keep up with that valuable form of damage.
Find out more by contacting a law firm, such as Wukela Law Firm.
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