Car accidents can be life-altering and traumatic. Most of them lead to serious physical injuries, mental trauma, and losses in terms of medical bills and expensive car repairs. However, if you have been a victim of such an incident, you don’t have to overthink and worry about it.
If the accident was due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to get compensation for your damages. The question is, how do you get the right amount in terms of claim. Below in this guide, we have jotted down some of the best practices you have to follow in order to get that.
Keep reading to find useful insights.
Don’t Delay Seeing the Doctor
Your health should always be your top priority after a car accident. Even if you feel relatively fine, getting immediate medical attention not only ensures that you receive proper care but also documents your injuries for any future claims.
This is because medical records play an important role in car accident claims. They are concrete evidence that your injuries were serious. Without documented proof of medical treatment, it becomes difficult to argue for full compensation. Therefore, make sure to follow through with all doctor’s recommendations and attend any necessary follow-up appointments.
File a Police Report in Local Police Station
A police report is one of the most important documents you can have when seeking compensation. After a car accident, contact the police immediately so that they can assess the scene and provide an official report.
The police report will include key details such as the location of the accident, witness statements, and an initial determination of fault.
This report will come in handy when dealing with insurance companies, as it provides an unbiased account of the accident. Even if the other party tries to downplay the incident or convince you not to involve law enforcement, always ensure that a police report is filed.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
After ensuring that everyone is safe and seeking medical attention, the next step is to exchange information with the other driver. Collect their full name, contact details, insurance information, driver’s license number, and the make and model of their vehicle. You should also provide your information to the other driver.
While it’s important to remain courteous, avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as anything you say can and will be used against you in future negotiations. Stick to exchanging the necessary information and wait for the police to arrive to handle the more complex details.
Involve Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible after the accident, notify your insurance company. Most insurance policies require you to report an accident within a specific timeframe, and failing to do so could lead to the denial of your claim. Provide your insurer with all the details of the accident and cooperate fully in the investigation.
Your insurance company will open a claim and, if the other party is at fault, will work with the at-fault driver’s insurer to handle the financial aspects. However, keep in mind that insurance companies often look to minimize the amount they have to pay out. While they are supposed to act in good faith, they are still for-profit businesses.
Be Cautious When Speaking with Insurance Adjusters
Once your claim is open, you may be contacted by the other party’s insurance company. It’s important to be very cautious during these interactions. Insurance adjusters may attempt to downplay the severity of your injuries or offer a lowball settlement in the hopes that you’ll accept it quickly.
You have the right to consult with an attorney before providing any statements to insurance companies. It’s wise not to give recorded statements without legal guidance, as anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Hiring a personal injury attorney is one of the best steps you can take to maximize your compensation. An experienced lawyer will handle the legal aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries. They will also be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
If you are looking for one of the best personal injury attorneys in town, we’d recommend you consult car accident lawyer Rick Barrera. They have a professional track record in handling car accident cases and are well aware of the local laws. This can all help you get the compensation you deserve and get it quickly.
They can also help you evaluate the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and lost earning potential.
Don’t Rush to Settle Your Claim
After a car accident, it may be tempting to accept the first settlement offer that comes your way. However, insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than they’re worth. It’s important to be patient and wait until you fully understand the extent of your injuries before agreeing to a settlement.
Once you settle, you waive your right to pursue additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen or new symptoms develop. By waiting until your medical treatment is complete and all expenses are accounted for, you’ll be in a better position to secure the compensation you deserve.
Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations
Each state has a statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. This timeline typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the state. If you fail to file your claim within this period, you may lose your right to seek compensation altogether.
It’s essential to be aware of these deadlines and take action as soon as possible. Even if you’re working on a settlement with the insurance company, you should keep the statute of limitations in mind and be prepared to file a lawsuit if necessary.
