Not every case is a slam dunk. Sometimes it’s a twisted ankle in a Walmart parking lot and sometimes it’s a pot of gold. If you’re wondering if your claim is more “air ball” or “all net,” here’s what you want to see:
1- The Other Person Was 100% at Fault 🛑
No wishy-washy stories or “well, technically…” moments. Especially in states like Florida, where the “51% rule” means if you’re mostly to blame (51% or more), you receive nothing. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can still collect, but your payout gets sliced by your percentage. For example, if you’re 30% at fault, you only get 70% of the settlement.
Is your head spinning yet?
2- You Went to the Doctor Immediately 🏥
You didn’t tough it out for three weeks or use a bag of frozen peas. You got medical treatment right away, and there’s a paper trail to prove it.
3- There’s Proof And a Lot of It 📸
Photos, videos, police reports, witness statements… if your Dropbox is overflowing, you’re doing it right. The more evidence, the less the insurance company can argue.
4- You Actually Got Hurt (And It’s in Writing) 🤕
“I was a little sore,” doesn’t really cut it. We’re talking real injuries, with real records like MRIs, physical therapy, notes from your doctors, and even those cringey hospital selfies.
5- You Lost Money or Missed Work 💸
Medical bills, pay stubs showing time off, receipts for anything out-of-pocket: if you can show you lost real cash, you’ve got leverage.
6- The Defendant (or Their Insurer) Can Pay 🏦
You can’t squeeze water from a stone. But if the at-fault party has real insurance or deep pockets, suddenly everyone’s a lot more interested.
7- Your Story Never Changes 🗣️
No “wait, was it Tuesday or Friday?” plot twists. If your story stays consistent from day one, you look credible. And credibility is everything in the PI world.
Pro Tip:
If your case checks most of these boxes, don’t brag about it to the adjuster, just let your evidence (and your attorney) do the talking.