Although hiring a professional attorney to handle injury claims is usually recommended, there are exceptions to every rule. In less complicated cases, it is possible for an individual to handle his or her own personal injury claim. However, it doesn’t hurt to have a few tips and tricks from an experienced attorney. Here are 5 expert tips to help you successfully handle your own claim:

1. Avoid Settling Too Quickly
Some insurance companies make it their policy to settle a claim within 24 ñ 48 hours. In fact, some companies go so far as to claim this policy is an advantage of their service. However, as a claimant, this practice is not beneficial, especially if you have sustained injuries. Sometimes, the full effect of an accident is not felt until days, or even weeks, later, and if the claim has already been settled, any remaining medical treatments will come out of your own pocket. To play it safe, try to avoid any quick settlements.

2. Get a Repair Estimate
Your insurance company will want to get an estimate on the extent of the property damages. Whether you drive your car to the insurance adjuster, or they go to where you have left your car, remember that an insurance adjuster is not a mechanic. Also, bear in mind that the insurance company has no incentive to find additional damages caused by the accident. In fact, it’s the opposite. It is in your best interest to take your car to a mechanic you trust before consulting the adjuster. That way, you can be fully aware of all the damages to your vehicle when the adjuster is assessing your vehicle.

3. Get a Doctor’s Note
Claims given by insurance companies include compensation for missed work days, but only if a doctor has advised taking the time off work. Before missing work for a long period of time, have your doctor or other medical professional write you a note for the missed days so you can get compensation.

4. Contest any Tickets
Being written a ticket after a car accident is never good. But fortunately, if you received a ticket, you can fight it in court if you have proof you did not do what you were cited for. You should fight the ticket even if the other person was ultimately at fault, because that ticket could give the insurance company reason to not give you full payment on your claim.

5. Keep a Pain Journal
A daily journal is the best way to document the pain from your injuries. A journal is a good way to demonstrate the pain you are experiencing because it goes beyond the assessments in your medical records. Keeping a pain journal can give you a stronger basis to ask for damages related to your pain and suffering.

Use these tips to your advantage to get the best results possible for your claim.