A demand letter is one of the most important resources used in a personal injury case. The letter lists the details of the accident as well as the total of your damages. The purpose of the letter is to demand a specific amount of compensation.
A demand letter includes the following:
- Details of your injury
- Details of the accident
- Reason why the individual is responsible
- Lost wages or benefits
- Other damages
The demand letter is a formal request for compensation for your damages.
How to Write a Winning Demand Letter
These tips can help you draft a winning demand letter:
- Gather all your evidence: Gathering your evidence ahead of time can help you stay organized and determine what proof you have against the other party. Review the medical procedures and check-ups that you have had to endure, as well as the physical and emotional pain that you have experienced.
- Include what happened: Describe what happened to you in detail. When describing the accident, be sure to include the four important elements of a personal injury. These include why the responsible person owed you a legal duty of care, the specific behavior they took to breach that, how that behavior led to the injury, and how your damages can be compensated financially.
- Consider your part in the accident: Many accidents are the responsibility of more than one individual. If there is any evidence that suggests that you were partially to blame, it can be helpful to clearly state that. Be sure to also include information on how you expect your part in the accident to affect your compensation amount.
- Be detailed: Being detailed about your injuries and the pain you have experienced can help your case. Insurance companies will sometimes minimize victim’s injuries in an attempt to reduce their compensation amount.
- Include evidence when possible: It can also be helpful to include evidence if you have access to any. Make copies of your income statements and any medical records that demonstrate your damages. Make sure you keep a copy of these documents for your own records.
In conclusion, list a specific amount of compensation that you expect. If you are unsure what this amount should be, then you might consider working with a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer will evaluate the details of your case and assist you in coming up with a value that appropriately covers your damages.
Consider Working With a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer offers additional benefits beyond the assistance of calculating the value of your case. Your legal team can also help you review your case and guide you on the best steps to take. It is also important to stay within New Jersey’s statute of limitations. If the responsible party does not agree to your demand letter, then you may need to take your case to court. You and your lawyer will need time to build your case, so staying within the required timeline is important.
Contact a Linwood Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a personal injury in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff represent clients injured in Atlantic City, Hamilton, Hammonton, Ventnor City, and throughout New Jersey. Call (609) 601-2233 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 605 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221, as well as an office in Philadelphia, PA.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.