The phone call from the insurance adjuster often comes quickly. They might sound friendly and concerned, ready to help you put this all behind you. It’s important to remember, however, that their job is to protect their company’s bottom line, which means settling your claim for the lowest amount possible. When you’re facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost time from work, a lowball offer simply won’t cut it. This is the critical point where you need to understand your power. Filing a lawsuit for car accident settlements isn’t just a last resort; it’s a strategic step to level the playing field and demand fair compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Your actions after an accident matter: Immediately seeking medical care, gathering evidence like photos, and avoiding social media posts are crucial first steps. These actions create a strong foundation for your claim and protect its value.
- A fair settlement covers more than just bills: True compensation accounts for all financial losses, like lost wages and future medical needs, as well as the personal cost of your pain, suffering, and changes to your quality of life.
- An attorney is your advocate against insurers: Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible. A lawyer counters their tactics, accurately calculates your claim’s full value, and manages the legal process for you, often with no upfront cost.
Should You File a Car Accident Lawsuit?
After a car accident, your head is probably spinning with questions. You’re dealing with injuries, car repairs, and calls from insurance adjusters, all while trying to get back to your normal life. It’s a lot to handle, and the path forward can seem unclear. One of the biggest questions that comes up is whether you should file a lawsuit. The idea can feel intimidating, and you might wonder if it’s really necessary. For many, the thought of a legal battle is the last thing they want to deal with, especially when they’re focused on healing.
However, understanding your legal options is a crucial part of protecting yourself. For many people, the process starts and ends with an insurance claim. But what happens when the insurance company’s offer doesn’t even begin to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and the pain you’ve endured? That’s when filing a lawsuit becomes a powerful tool to secure the compensation you deserve. It’s not about being confrontational; it’s about ensuring you are treated fairly after going through a traumatic event. Knowing when to move from a simple claim to a formal lawsuit can make all the difference in your physical and financial recovery. This decision is a significant one, and it helps to know what each path involves.
Insurance Claim vs. Lawsuit: What’s the Difference?
Think of an insurance claim as the first step. It’s a formal request you make to an insurance company for compensation after an accident. You provide details, they investigate, and hopefully, they make a fair offer. In fact, the vast majority of cases are resolved at this stage through a settlement, without ever stepping into a courtroom. A lawsuit, on the other hand, is a civil action you file in court. This step is usually taken when the insurance company denies your claim, refuses to negotiate fairly, or makes a lowball offer that won’t cover your losses from motor vehicle accidents. Filing a lawsuit doesn’t guarantee a trial; it often just motivates the insurer to negotiate a better settlement.
Key Signs You May Need a Lawyer
If your injuries are serious, the other driver is denying fault, or the insurance adjuster is pressuring you to accept a quick, low offer, it’s time to consider legal help. Many people worry they can’t afford an attorney, but most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win your case, with their fee being a percentage of your settlement. You pay nothing upfront.
Hiring a lawyer doesn’t automatically mean you’re going to court. It simply means you have an expert on your side to manage your claim, protect your rights, and handle communications with the insurance company. A good attorney will help you understand your options and build a strong case for the compensation you need. A free consultation can give you clarity without any commitment.
How Is a Car Accident Settlement Calculated?
After a car accident, one of the biggest questions is, “What is my case worth?” There’s no magic calculator for this, but a settlement is built by carefully adding up all the ways the accident has impacted your life. It’s a process of accounting for every loss, from the obvious medical bills to the less tangible costs of your pain. Understanding the key components can help you see the full picture of what a fair settlement should cover. A settlement aims to compensate you for your economic losses and the personal toll the accident has taken on your well-being.
Current and Future Medical Expenses
The foundation of most car accident settlements is medical costs. This includes every expense related to your injuries, starting from the moment of the crash. Think about the ambulance ride, emergency room visit, hospital stays, surgeries, and any follow-up appointments with specialists. It also covers the cost of prescription medications, physical therapy, and necessary medical equipment like crutches or a wheelchair. Crucially, a settlement must also account for future medical care. If your injuries require long-term treatment or you may need another surgery down the road, those projected costs are a vital part of your claim. Your medical records are the primary evidence used to prove these expenses.
Lost Wages and Impact on Future Earnings
If your injuries kept you from working, you deserve to be compensated for that lost income. This calculation includes more than just your base salary or hourly pay; it also covers missed overtime, bonuses, or commissions you would have earned. You’ll need documentation like pay stubs and a letter from your employer to prove these losses. In more severe cases, your injuries might permanently affect your ability to do your job or force you into a lower-paying career. This is known as “loss of earning capacity,” and it compensates you for the wages you will lose over the course of your working life.
Calculating Pain and Suffering
This part of a settlement covers the non-financial impact of the accident. “Pain and suffering” is a legal term for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you’ve experienced because of your injuries. It acknowledges the anxiety, depression, sleepless nights, and loss of enjoyment of life that often follow a traumatic event. Because you can’t put a dollar amount on these experiences with a receipt, calculating them is complex. Insurance companies often use formulas to arrive at a number, but a skilled attorney can build a strong case to show the true, human cost of the accident on your life.
Covering Your Property Damage
The most straightforward part of your claim is typically the damage to your property. This primarily covers the cost to repair your vehicle. If the damage is so severe that your car is declared a total loss, you are entitled to its fair market value at the time of the crash. This is often called the Actual Cash Value (ACV). Remember to include any other personal items that were damaged in the accident, such as a laptop, cell phone, or child car seat. Keep all your repair estimates and receipts, as they are essential for getting fully reimbursed for these losses.
Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit: A Step-by-Step Guide
The legal process after a car accident can feel overwhelming, but it follows a structured path. Understanding these steps can help you feel more in control as you move forward with your claim. From collecting the initial proof to reaching a final resolution, each phase plays a critical role in building your case. Think of it as a roadmap that guides you from the initial filing to securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s a breakdown of the four main stages you can expect.
Step 1: Gather Your Evidence
Right after an accident, your focus should be on collecting as much information as possible. Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful insurance claim or lawsuit. Start with the official documents. A police report is essential, as it provides an objective record of the incident, including who was involved and any initial findings of fault. Beyond that, take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle’s damage, and any visible injuries. Also, be sure to get the contact information of any witnesses. Finally, keep a detailed file of all your medical treatments, bills, and receipts for any related expenses. This documentation will be crucial for proving your case later on.
Step 2: File the Complaint (and Watch the Clock)
Once you and your attorney decide to move forward, the next step is to file a formal complaint with the court. This document outlines your claims against the at-fault party and officially begins the lawsuit. It’s incredibly important to be mindful of the deadline for this step. In Michigan, you have a limited time to file a lawsuit after a car accident, which is known as the statute of limitations)/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=mcl-600-5805). For most personal injury cases, this deadline is three years from the date of the accident. If you miss it, you could lose your right to seek compensation forever, so acting promptly is key.
Step 3: The Discovery Process Explained
After the complaint is filed, both sides enter a phase called discovery. This is the formal process of exchanging information and evidence. It’s designed to make sure everyone has access to the same facts so there are no surprises down the road. During discovery, your attorney will use several tools to build your case. These include interrogatories, which are written questions the other party must answer under oath; requests for documents, such as medical records or phone logs; and depositions, where witnesses provide sworn testimony out of court. This stage is all about uncovering the details needed to strengthen your claim.
Step 4: Negotiate a Settlement or Go to Trial
The final stage of the process is resolving your case. It’s a common misconception that every lawsuit ends in a dramatic courtroom battle. In reality, the vast majority of personal injury cases are resolved through a car accident settlement. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair agreement that covers your damages. If a fair offer isn’t made, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will hear the evidence and decide the outcome. Your lawyer will guide you on the best path forward, always aiming for the resolution that best serves your interests.
What Evidence Can Strengthen Your Case?
Building a strong car accident claim is a lot like building a house; it needs a solid foundation. In the legal world, that foundation is evidence. The more credible and detailed evidence you can gather, the clearer the picture becomes of what happened and how it has affected your life. Strong evidence helps prove who was at fault and demonstrates the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Think of each piece of evidence as a building block. A medical record, a photo from the scene, or a witness’s account all work together to support your claim. While a lawyer can help you gather and organize this information, knowing what to look for from the very beginning can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Let’s walk through the key types of evidence that can strengthen your position.
The Role of Medical Records and Expert Opinions
After an accident, your health is the top priority. Seeking medical attention is not only crucial for your recovery but also for your legal claim. Your medical records are one of the most powerful pieces of evidence you can have. As one legal expert notes, “Medical records document your injuries, treatment, and prognosis, providing evidence that directly links your injuries to the crash.” This documentation creates an official timeline of your injuries and the care you’ve received.
These records are essential for showing an insurance company or a jury the true impact of the accident on your physical well-being. In some cases, the opinion of a medical expert may also be needed to explain how your injuries will affect your future. This expert testimony can be vital in securing fair compensation for ongoing medical needs and a diminished quality of life resulting from a motor vehicle accident.
Photos and Notes from the Accident Scene
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to a car accident. If you are able, taking photos and videos at the scene can provide indisputable proof of the conditions and damages. “Photographs of the accident scene, including visible injuries, road conditions, the position of vehicles, and other features, can be very useful in proving your case.” Capture everything you can: damage to all vehicles involved, skid marks on the road, traffic signals, and any visible injuries you sustained.
It’s also a good idea to write down everything you remember as soon as possible. Memories can fade over time, so creating your own notes can be incredibly helpful. Jot down the time of day, the weather, what you were doing right before the crash, and any conversations you had with the other driver. These details can help your attorney piece together exactly what happened.
Why Witness Statements and Police Reports Matter
Official reports and third-party accounts add a layer of credibility to your claim that is hard to dispute. After an accident, the responding officer will create a police report. This document “provides an official record of the accident, including details such as the time, location, involved parties, and any initial determinations of fault.” Insurance companies often use this report as a starting point for their investigation, so it’s a critical piece of evidence.
Additionally, statements from people who saw the crash can be invaluable. “Gathering witness statements can also bolster your case, as eyewitness accounts can provide additional perspectives on how the accident occurred.” Because witnesses are neutral observers, their testimony can carry significant weight. If there are witnesses, be sure to get their names and contact information before leaving the scene. Their accounts can help confirm your version of events and strengthen your overall personal injury claim.
How a Lawyer Can Affect Your Settlement
After an accident, you might wonder if hiring a lawyer is worth it. The short answer is yes. Bringing in a legal professional does more than just add someone to your team; it fundamentally changes how your case is handled. An experienced attorney understands the full scope of what you’re entitled to and has the skills to fight for it. They handle the complex legal work, deal with the insurance companies, and build a strong case on your behalf, giving you the space to focus on your recovery. This isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about having a dedicated advocate who can anticipate challenges and create a strategy to secure the best possible outcome for you and your family. They gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and consult with experts to build a comprehensive claim that reflects the true extent of your losses. From negotiating with adjusters to representing you in court if needed, a lawyer manages every step so you don’t have to face it alone. They ensure deadlines are met, proper procedures are followed, and your story is told in a compelling way. Ultimately, having a lawyer means you have a professional partner committed to protecting your interests when you are at your most vulnerable.
Benefit from Legal Expertise and a Clear Case Evaluation
One of the most significant advantages of hiring a lawyer is gaining immediate clarity on your situation. A skilled car accident attorney will help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and explain the legal process in simple terms. They can assess all the details, from the police report to your medical records, to determine what your claim is truly worth. This evaluation goes beyond just current medical bills; it includes future treatment costs, lost income, and the personal impact of pain and suffering. This expert perspective ensures your case is fully examined so you can pursue fair compensation.
Countering Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their bottom line. This often means offering quick, low settlements to close claims as cheaply as possible. Their adjusters are trained negotiators who may try to get you to accept less than you deserve. A lawyer acts as your advocate, leveling the playing field. They know the tactics insurers use and are prepared to counter them. For victims of serious motor vehicle accidents, having an attorney to manage these negotiations is critical. They will fight for the full amount you are owed, ensuring you aren’t pressured into an unfair deal.
Understanding Contingency Fees and Legal Costs
Many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer, but most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement means you don’t pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer’s payment is a percentage of the settlement or verdict they win for you. If they don’t win your case, you don’t owe them a fee for their time. This model makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It allows you to get the help you need without any out-of-pocket risk, so you can focus on what matters most: your health and well-being.
What Types of Damages Can You Claim?
After a car accident, the path to recovery can feel overwhelming. When you file a lawsuit, you’re seeking compensation for your losses, which are legally referred to as “damages.” Understanding the different types of damages you can claim is a key step in getting the support you need to move forward. These damages are generally divided into three categories: economic, non-economic, and, in rare cases, punitive. Each one covers a different aspect of the harm you’ve experienced, from the bills piling up on your counter to the personal struggles that don’t come with a price tag. Knowing what you may be entitled to helps set clear expectations for your case.
What Are Economic Damages?
Economic damages are the most straightforward because they cover the specific, calculable financial losses you’ve suffered due to the accident. Think of these as the costs that have a clear paper trail. This includes all of your medical bills, from the initial emergency room visit to ongoing physical therapy and any future treatments you may need. It also covers lost wages if you were unable to work during your recovery. If your injuries affect your ability to earn a living long-term, you can also seek compensation for loss of future earning capacity. We work with you to gather every receipt, bill, and pay stub to build a clear picture of the financial impact the accident has had on your life.
What Are Non-Economic Damages?
Non-economic damages compensate you for losses that don’t have a fixed dollar amount but are just as real and impactful. This category addresses the human cost of an accident. It includes compensation for your physical pain and suffering, as well as the emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma that often follow such an event. It also covers the loss of enjoyment of life, which refers to your diminished ability to participate in hobbies and activities you once loved. While no amount of money can erase these experiences, these damages acknowledge the profound effect the accident has had on your well-being and quality of life.
When Can Punitive Damages Be Awarded?
Punitive damages are different from the other two types. They aren’t meant to compensate you for a loss but to punish the person who caused the accident for extremely reckless or intentional behavior. These damages are awarded only in rare cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly outrageous, such as in some drunk driving incidents or cases involving extreme negligence. The goal is to send a strong message that such behavior is unacceptable and to deter others from acting in a similar way. Because the standard for awarding punitive damages is very high, they are not a factor in most motor vehicle accident cases.
How Long Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Take?
One of the first questions on everyone’s mind is, “How long will this take?” It’s a completely valid question. You’re dealing with injuries, bills, and a lot of uncertainty, so wanting a clear timeline makes sense. The honest answer is: it depends. Every car accident case is unique, and the path to a settlement or verdict isn’t always a straight line. Some cases resolve in a few months, while more complex situations can take a year or even longer.
The timeline is influenced by many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the clarity of who is at fault, and the willingness of the insurance company to offer a fair settlement. Understanding the different phases of the process can help you set realistic expectations and feel more in control. Let’s walk through the typical stages and what can cause delays along the way.
The Timeline Before a Lawsuit Is Filed
Before a lawsuit even begins, a lot of important work happens behind the scenes. This pre-litigation phase is all about building the foundation of your case. It starts with gathering crucial evidence like the police report, photos from the scene, and your initial medical records. During this time, your attorney will likely file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and begin negotiations. This initial back-and-forth can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The timeline often depends on how complex your injuries are and how cooperative the insurance adjuster is. If a fair settlement can be reached here, you may avoid a lawsuit altogether.
How Long Court Proceedings Can Take
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, the next step is to file a lawsuit. Once your case officially enters the court system, the clock starts on a new phase. The duration of court proceedings can vary widely, from several months to a couple of years. This timeline is affected by the court’s schedule, the complexity of the legal arguments, and the number of parties involved. The process includes formal evidence sharing, known as discovery, as well as depositions and motions. While it might seem slow, each step is designed to ensure both sides have all the necessary information before heading to a potential trial.
Common Factors That Can Delay Your Case
Several things can slow down the progress of your car accident lawsuit. A major factor is the need for extensive evidence gathering, especially if your injuries require long-term medical treatment. Your doctors may need time to determine the full extent of your future medical needs, which is critical for calculating your settlement. Delays can also happen if key witnesses are hard to track down. The negotiation process itself can be a significant holdup, as your lawyer works to counter lowball offers from the insurance company. The discovery process can also extend the timeline, as both sides request and review documents, which can be a lengthy procedure.
What to Expect from the Insurance Company
After a car accident, it’s natural to assume the insurance company is there to help you get back on your feet. While they play a crucial role in the process, it’s important to remember that they are a business. Their primary goal is to protect their financial interests, which often means paying out as little as possible on claims. This doesn’t make them villains, but it does mean their priorities are different from yours.
You can expect the insurance adjuster assigned to your case to be friendly and professional, but their job is to evaluate your claim from their company’s perspective. They are trained negotiators skilled at managing costs. Understanding their process and common strategies can help you feel more prepared and in control. From the moment you file a claim, they will begin a detailed process to determine fault and calculate the value of your damages. Knowing what’s coming can make all the difference in how you handle the interactions and decisions that lie ahead. Having a clear picture of their playbook is the first step toward ensuring you are treated fairly.
How They Investigate Your Claim
The insurance company will launch a thorough investigation into the accident almost immediately. This isn’t just a quick look at the facts; it’s a deep dive meant to build their own version of events. Adjusters will review police reports, interview any available witnesses, and look at photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage. They will also request access to your medical records to understand the extent of your injuries. The purpose of this investigation is to determine who was at fault and assess the total damages. Remember, they are looking at the important evidence in your case through a lens of minimizing their company’s financial liability.
Common Negotiation Tactics to Watch For
Insurance adjusters use several common tactics to settle claims for the lowest amount possible. One of the most frequent is making a low initial settlement offer, sometimes just days after the accident. They hope you’ll accept it quickly, before you know the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs. An adjuster might also try to downplay the severity of your injuries or suggest that some of your medical treatments weren’t necessary. They may even attempt to shift some of the blame for the accident onto you, as this can reduce what they have to pay. It’s helpful to be aware of these common misconceptions and tactics so you aren’t caught off guard.
Why an Insurer Might Push for a Trial
Most car accident cases settle out of court, but sometimes an insurance company will push for a trial. This can happen for a few reasons. They might believe the evidence is weak and that they have a strong chance of winning in court. In other cases, it’s a strategic move to delay the process. They know that a long, drawn-out court battle can be stressful and expensive for you. The hope is that you might get frustrated and accept a lower settlement offer just to be done with it. Understanding the car accident litigation process can help you and your attorney decide on the best path forward if the insurance company seems unwilling to negotiate a fair settlement.
Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Settlement
After a car accident, you’re juggling a lot: your recovery, your vehicle, and your finances. It’s a stressful time, and it’s easy to make a misstep that could reduce your settlement. Understanding a few common pitfalls can help you protect your claim and ensure you get the compensation you need to move forward. Let’s walk through some of the most frequent mistakes and how you can avoid them.
Mistake #1: Accepting the First Lowball Offer
The insurance company might contact you quickly with a settlement offer. While it can be tempting to take the money and put the accident behind you, this first offer is almost always less than what your claim is worth. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. They know you’re in a vulnerable position and might accept a low amount out of desperation. Don’t fall for it. You need time to understand the full extent of your injuries and financial losses. A lawyer can help you calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement that covers all your needs, not just the immediate ones.
Mistake #2: Delaying Medical Treatment
Seeing a doctor right after a car accident is critical, both for your health and for your legal claim. Even if you feel okay, some serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. A medical professional can identify underlying issues and start your treatment plan. From a legal standpoint, this visit creates an official record linking your injuries to the accident. If you wait weeks to see a doctor, the insurance company can argue that your injuries aren’t that serious or were caused by something else. Consistent medical records are one of the strongest pieces of evidence you can have. Make your health a priority and get a medical evaluation as soon as possible after a crash.
Mistake #3: Posting About Your Case on Social Media
In the age of social media, it’s natural to want to share updates with friends and family, but it can seriously harm your case. Insurance companies will look at your social media profiles for anything they can use against you. A photo of you at a family barbecue or a comment about feeling “fine” can be taken out of context to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. These simple posts can lead you to unintentionally harm your own case. The safest approach is to stop posting on social media altogether until your case is resolved. Also, ask your friends and family not to post photos of you or tag you in anything.
Get the Support You Need for Your Lawsuit
Facing a lawsuit can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Getting the right support and staying organized are the first steps toward taking control. By understanding the value of professional advice, keeping your documents in order, and knowing how state laws apply to you, you can build a solid foundation for your case.
The Value of a Legal Consultation
If you’re on the fence about talking to a lawyer, a legal consultation can bring much-needed clarity. A skilled car accident attorney will help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process. This conversation is your chance to ask questions and get a professional opinion on your options without any commitment. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what your next steps could be, whether that’s pursuing a claim or deciding on a different path. It’s about getting the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family.
Checklists to Keep Your Documents Organized
One of the most powerful things you can do for your case is to get organized from day one. Create a dedicated folder for all accident-related documents. Be sure to include the police report, all of your medical records and bills, photos from the scene, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Keeping everything in one place makes it easier to find what you need when you need it. This simple step can significantly streamline the legal process for your attorney and ensures that no critical piece of evidence gets lost in the shuffle. It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference.
How Michigan’s Negligence Laws Affect Your Case
Many people worry that if they were even slightly at fault for an accident, they can’t file a claim. In Michigan, that’s not necessarily true. The state follows what’s called a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that while being partially to blame for your wreck can impact the amount of compensation you receive, it won’t completely bar your personal injury claim as long as you are found to be 50% or less at fault. Your settlement would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. Understanding this rule is crucial, as it could mean you are still eligible for the compensation you need.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to go to court if I file a lawsuit? Not usually. Filing a lawsuit is often a strategic step that signals to the insurance company that you are serious about receiving fair compensation. The vast majority of car accident cases are resolved through a settlement long before a trial is necessary. The act of filing can motivate the insurer to negotiate a better offer, and the goal is almost always to reach a fair agreement without ever stepping into a courtroom.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer? This is a common worry, but you don’t need to pay anything upfront. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means their fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict they win for you. If they are not successful in recovering compensation for your case, you owe them nothing for their time. This approach makes expert legal help accessible to everyone.
What if the accident was partially my fault? Can I still get compensation? Yes, you may still be able to recover damages. Michigan follows a rule called “modified comparative negligence.” This means that as long as you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still pursue a claim. Your final compensation amount would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. You shouldn’t assume you don’t have a case just because you might share some responsibility.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Michigan? There is a strict deadline for filing a lawsuit, which is known as the statute of limitations. In Michigan, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file your claim. If you miss this window, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation permanently. This is why it is so important to act promptly and discuss your options with an attorney.
What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company calls me with an offer? It is wise to be cautious. You are not required to give a recorded statement or accept an offer right away. Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly with a low offer, sometimes before you even know the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs. You can politely tell them that you are not prepared to discuss a settlement and that you will be seeking legal advice. This protects you from settling for less than you deserve.
