A car accident can be a life-changing experience. It can be difficult to navigate the aftermath of a car accident, and dealing with insurance companies in order to get a fair settlement. Most insurance adjusters want to settle cases as cheaply as possible. As a victim of a car crash, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
To maximize your compensation, you should hire an attorney with experience who can negotiate effectively on your behalf. We’ve put together 15 tips to help you navigate the claims process.
Table of Contents
1. Investigate thoroughly
After an accident, the first thing you should do is gather all of the information necessary at the scene. Speak with witnesses and get their contact details. Document all the important details. Get a copy if a policeman was present. This document will be essential to support your claim.
2. Photograph the scene
The power of photographic evidence cannot be overstated. Take photos of the accident site, the damage to vehicles, the injuries you sustained, and other contributing factors such as road conditions, traffic signals, etc. with your smartphone. These photos will be a great asset if you have to go to court, or if an insurance company disputes the extent of the damage.
3. Protect Your Medical Privacy
It may seem normal for the insurance company of the other party to request your medical records after an accident. However, you should be careful. If you give them access, they may use it against you to minimize the severity of your injury or claim that your injuries are pre-existing. Share your records only when it is necessary, and with your lawyer’s permission.
4. Make sure the insurance company sets up a high reserve
The insurance companies set aside a certain amount of money for each claim. This is the maximum they are willing to pay. You should ask them to set up a large reserve, particularly if you have suffered significant injuries. If you have a low reserve, it can force you to settle for a much lower amount than your case is actually worth.
5. Update the Adjuster regarding Injury Severity
Inform the adjuster about your progress. Let the insurance company adjust the reserve if your injuries get worse over time, or if you develop new symptoms. It is important to ensure that the amount of your claim accurately reflects all costs associated with medical treatment, including long-term care.
6. Refuse to settle quickly when under pressure
The insurance adjuster may attempt to pressure you into accepting a settlement early, before your full injuries are known. When medical bills are piling up, it can be tempting for you to accept the first offer. Holding out for the fair settlement you deserve is important.
7. Keep a detailed injury diary
You can improve your case by keeping a daily journal of your injuries, treatment, and limitations. Documenting pain levels, new symptoms and the impact of your injury on your everyday life can help you calculate fair compensation.
8. Know Your Rights to Damages
Damages in a car accident are not limited to medical expenses. You should research all possible damages, including loss of income, future medical costs, property damage and pain and discomfort. You’ll be compensated for your full damages if you know the extent of them.
9. Keep all related bills and receipts
In order to prove expenses, you must keep all receipts and bills. Keep all receipts and invoices for services related to your accident. This includes hospital bills, prescription receipts, physical therapy fees, etc. These documents will validate your claim and show the financial impact.
10. You Should Know the Full Impact of Your Injury
Some injuries sustained in a car crash may not be apparent immediately. For example, soft tissue injuries and traumatic brain injury may not be apparent for weeks following the accident. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention, keep all appointments and pay close attention to any new symptoms. It will not only help you to prove your case, but also ensure that you get the treatment you need.
11. Find out about all the insurance coverage options available
You may be covered by more than one insurance policy. Your own insurance policy, for example, may offer benefits like personal injury protection or uninsured driver coverage. Workers’ compensation is also available if an accident occurred on the job. An attorney who is skilled can identify all possible sources of compensation.
12. You should follow your doctor’s recommendations
It is important to maintain a consistent medical regimen. Your case can be damaged if you miss appointments or stop treatment without the doctor’s approval. Insurance companies may claim that your injuries were not as serious as you claimed, and reduce your compensation. Keep under the care of your doctor until you are fully released.
13. You Should File Your Lawsuit Immediately
A lawsuit filed immediately puts pressure on the insurer, demonstrating your seriousness in pursuing compensation. You can also avoid missing important deadlines such as the statute of limitations that could prevent you from pursuing your claim.
14. Ask for an evaluation from a qualified trial lawyer
Most attorneys offer free evaluations of cases. This is a great opportunity to obtain an expert opinion about your case. They can give you valuable insight on the strengths and weaknesses of your claim, as well as its potential value. The outcome of your case can be significantly affected by the lawyer you choose.
15. Select a Trial-Ready Lawyer
Select a lawyer who has trial experience and isn’t scared to go to court, if necessary. Insurance companies are aware of which lawyers are more willing to settle quickly, and which are prepared to litigate. Hiring an attorney who is ready to go to trial shows your insurers that you are serious, which increases the chances of a favorable resolution.
Tips to Success: Putting it All Together
The claims process is a complex one that requires attention to every detail. These 15 secrets will not only increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement, but prepare you for any challenges along the way. Here’s a brief summary of the entire process:
- Collect evidence: Take pictures, gather witness information and obtain a police report.
- Document your injuries. Keep a daily journal, keep all receipts, medical records and remain consistent in treatment.
- Communication is key: Inform the insurance company of your current condition without disclosing any unnecessary information or compromising your privacy.
- Seek professional assistance: Speak with an attorney who is qualified, preferably one with experience in court, and can represent your interests.
Why hiring an attorney is important
The insurance companies will often settle for a minimal amount, and the process of filing a claim can be difficult to navigate. A professional attorney can offer many benefits. An attorney with experience in handling car accident claims can help you maximize your compensation and overcome any legal obstacles.
We specialize in car accident cases and other personal injury claims at Bonardi & Uzdavinis. Our attorneys are committed to helping our clients receive fair compensation. They understand the tricks insurance companies use to lower payouts. We are proud to represent accident victims, and we strive to make the entire process as smooth as possible.
Contact Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP Today
Do not try to deal with the situation on your own if you’ve been in an accident. Bonardi & Uzdavinis LLP can help you understand your rights and will guide you through the entire process to ensure you get the compensation to which you are entitled. Contact us by calling 813-540-1919, or visit our website to schedule a consultation with an expert lawyer and receive personalized support. We will protect your rights, and make sure you get a fair settlement if you are injured in an accident.
This guide will assist you in navigating the sometimes difficult process of settling a personal injury claim following a car accident. This is not something you should do alone. Bonardi & Uzdavinis LLP will handle the complexities, so you can focus on your recovery.
This article has been written by a Bonardi and Uzdavinis expert. Bonardi & Uzdavinis LLP is a boutique law firm that offers a wide range of legal services to its clients. Our practice areas include real estate, personal injury and probate. For a free evaluation of your case, contact us if you are in need of a real estate attorney or Riverview Personal Injury Attorney.