If you prove the hiring party’s negligence, you can seek compensation for your economic and non-economic losses. This includes all medical bills, lost income from missed work, and the cost of future care or lost earning capacity. You can also claim for “pain and suffering,“ which covers physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. The final amount aims to financially restore you to the position you were in before the incident occurred.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to investigate. They will review your policy, assess the evidence, interview involved parties, and determine coverage and liability based on the facts and your policy terms. They may estimate repair costs or, for injury claims, evaluate medical reports. The insurer will then make a decision to accept or deny the claim, or to negotiate a settlement. This process can take from weeks to several months depending on complexity.

For any offer beyond a minor, straightforward claim, getting independent legal advice is crucial before accepting. A lawyer can assess the offer’s fairness, ensure the release documents protect your rights, and negotiate for a better outcome. They work on a contingency fee (a percentage of the final settlement), so there is no upfront cost. Their involvement often results in a significantly higher net recovery, even after their fee, making it a prudent step.