When I started to work with the city, I realized that I was going to be working alongside our attorneys every single day. While I was a little nervous around them at first, we quickly became friends and all of that anxiety melted away. It was really neat to see how many different subjects they could handle, and I realized just how necessary they were for helping me to manage various daily occurrences. On this website, I thought it would be really great to start talking about how to work with lawyers, and what it might mean for you and your family if you seek legal advice early.
Cassandra Stone
The aftermath of your car accident can be scary and confusing, and this includes contacting and working with your insurance provider. It is the job of your insurance provider to save as much money as possible on your claim, which is why the process of getting a fair settlement can be difficult. Don't sabotage yourself during the settlement process by making these common mistakes.
Not Hiring an Attorney
After you call your insurance provider, contact a personal injury attorney. Your insurance provider employs an army of attorneys, and it is their job to ensure your insurance company pays out the lowest settlement possible. Whether you are at fault or not or are working with your insurance provider or the other driver's insurance provider, hiring an attorney will help ensure you don't go through the settlement process alone.
An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence, including information from your doctor, the police report, and photos from the accident.
Waiting Too Long to Contact Your Insurance Company
The physical and emotional pain of a car accident can be devastating, and the last thing on your mind is talking to your insurance company. However, waiting until you are out of the hospital or are feeling better can damage your chances of getting a fair settlement. Your insurance provider can claim that any injuries or medical issues you are suffering were not caused by the accident if you don't contact them right away.
During the initial claim, tell them your name, you suffered an accident, and you would like to file a claim. Do not give them any information about the accident, including when and where it occurred, or admit any fault. Anything you say during this initial conversation can damage your settlement.
Ask for the claims adjuster's name and write down as much as you can about the interaction, including which questions you were asked and the answers you gave.
Accepting an Unfair Settlement Offer
Finally, in the initial stages of your claim, the insurance company will often provide you with an initial settlement. Even if the settlement seems fair or you want the process to be over, it is important to talk to your attorney and consider your options before you accept that settlement. Your attorney can help you provide a counter offer and work with you to strengthen your case.
If you are ever in a car accident or were a recent victim of the accident, it is important to avoid making any mistakes that can impact your ability to get the settlement you deserve. Talk with an accident lawyer like those at Siben & Siben LLP about your case and your settlement.