Direct Pay: Getting Paid Without Filing Suit

Posted on: 16 October 2018

Everyone knows that you can file suit against a person or business that has harmed you, but many don't know about the shortcuts. Taking a case to court takes not just months of waiting, but is more stressful and expensive to boot. Read on and learn more about two ways to get paid faster than filing suit and taking it to court.

Injuries at a Business

The owners or managers of retail shops and other businesses have a duty to ensure that customers have a safe experience. If something happens to you while at a place of business, you may have a cause of action against them. Before you take that step, however, see if the business will cover your expenses. Business owners are usually insured against claims for accidents that happen on their property. Often, victims can expect to have their medical bills, lost wages, lost property, and more paid. Take action quickly when you get hurt and contact the manager on duty right away. You may need to fill out an accident report at the scene (if you are able) and then a claim form listing your damages later on. If you feel that the amount offered is too low, speak to a personal injury attorney about taking further legal action against the business.

Send a Letter Demanding Compensation

Many people are totally unaware of this simple but effective way to be paid for damages outside of court. Demand letters can be used for almost any type of personal injury you can imagine, from car wrecks to slip and falls to defamation cases. While you can send a letter asking for payment without a lawyer, it's not recommended. The tricky thing about personal injury situations is knowing what you are owed. Most people have no idea of the scope of damages and the areas of compensation for which you might be entitled. Personal injury lawyers not only know how much you are owed but also how to conduct a negotiation with the other party that is meant to get that money.

The end result of a successful demand letter is an offer to settle. Just like you, the other party is hesitant to fight the case out in court and paying the victim right away may actually end up being a lot less expensive than taking it to court. The letter should be carefully crafted, convincing and filled with details to be successful, so speak to a personal injury attorney about creating your demand letter today.

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Always Know Your Renter's Rights

After my mother suffered a fall on the icy steps of her apartment building, I learned a lot about renter's rights, and I want to share my story and tips to help others. My mother was extremely afraid to pursue action against the apartment owners who were at fault for her fall due to fear she would be kicked out of her apartment. I found out that there are state laws that protect apartment renters from retaliation for asserting their rights as renters. However, it is very important to have any attorney on your side when you pursue a personal injury lawsuit against an apartment owner; the owner is less likely to even try to illegally evict you if they know you have an attorney already on your side. I hope you can learn a lot from my story and the other tips I share on this blog!