If you’ve been unlucky enough to have been the victim of an accident, you probably feel very lost trying to deal with injuries, car repair, missed time at work, and having to deal with the other person’s insurance company on top of everything else. In order to get properly compensated, you’ll have to deal with that company’s adjuster, and you’ll have to work hard to get all of the money to which you’re entitled.

Adjusters try to settle claims quickly, before you’ve had time to fully assess your injuries, damage to your car, and other factors that could raise the value of your claim. Any initial offer the other insurance company makes is likely to be quite low.

Take your time in preparing your documents to give to the adjuster. Make sure that your doctor’s notes on your injuries are as detailed as possible, since the adjuster may try to claim that injuries in the accident are actually related to pre-accident conditions. Instead of arguing over medical bills with the adjuster, simply say that your doctor’s documentation speaks for itself. These notes should include prescriptions filled, and the severity of your pain, as well as any limitations in motion; these can be important in getting you pain and suffering compensation. Documentation from your employer stating that you could not perform your normal job duties can be crucial for recovering lost wages, too.

If you spend plenty of time compiling detailed documentation of your injuries and car repair costs, most adjusters will realize you know what you are talking about, and offer you a fair reimbursement. If you feel you are being short-changed, you may have to hire a lawyer. Although you’ll have to pay the lawyer with settlement money, sometimes this is the only way to receive a fair compensation for your claim. Remember that you must remain firm with adjusters, and don’t be afraid to call often and assert yourself before settling on a claim amount, because once you accept their offer, you won’t be able to renegotiate the amount.

—Seth Berger