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The outcome of your personal injury claim depends on a variety of factors, many of which are out of your control. For example, no matter how much evidence you present, there’s no way to compel the insurance adjuster to cooperate. 

Thankfully, if you do find yourself going up against a party that refuses to offer a fair settlement (or even recognize the validity of your claim), there are a few steps you can take to pursue the compensation you deserve regardless. Read on to learn what they are: 

Compile More Evidence 

Sometimes, insurance adjusters simply want to see more evidence. If the one reviewing your claim feels the proof you initially presented was lacking, they won’t be inclined to negotiate.  

Fortunately, it may be possible to bolster your case with more evidence, even if you were sure you’d left no stone unturned. For example, you could consult a few more experts to obtain additional statements. You may have also overlooked a couple of eyewitnesses who can corroborate your own version of events.  

Other proof that might contribute to your claim includes more detailed photographs of the scene, video footage from various angles, and official incident reports.

Name Additional Defendants

It’s not uncommon for multiple parties to play a role in injury-causing accidents. If you file a third-party claim but the insurance adjuster disputes their policyholder’s liability, it’s worth going back to the drawing board and considering who else might be responsible.  

If you can identify anyone else who contributed to the incident, you can try seeking compensation from them. Depending on the circumstances, it may end up being easier securing a payout under their liability policy than it was under the original defendant’s coverage. It may also be possible to secure funds from both parties, thereby increasing your net compensation.  

File a Lawsuit 

If the insurance adjuster refuses to work with you no matter what you do, asking the court to get involved may be the only way to pursue the compensation you deserve. As long as you have grounds for legal action (and the evidence needed to prove as much), there’s a good chance you’ll be able to secure a favorable judgement.  

Keep in mind, however, that you have a limited amount of time to file a formal lawsuit. Under California tort law, the usual statute of limitations is two years.  

That means you likely have two years from the date on which you were hurt—or the date on which you should have discovered you were hurt—to take the opposing party to court. There are a couple of exceptions that can shorten this deadline, however, so it’s advisable to call a lawyer and get the proceedings underway sooner rather than later.  

Discuss Your Claim with a Personal Injury Lawyer in California  

Were you seriously hurt in some kind of preventable accident? If the damages are adding up fast, turn to Harris Personal Injury Lawyers.   

Our tenacious team has recovered more than $300 million for those who have been wronged by others. To schedule a free case review with a personal injury attorney in California and see if you have grounds for a claim, call 1-800-GO-HARRIS or fill out our Contact Form.