When you have been in injured in an auto accident, and are looking to pursue compensation for any damages incurred, you should know the process can be exhaustive and lengthy. You may feel compelled to end negotiations as quickly as possible and take the first offer given. However, this is not ideal. By doing this, you will not be able to pursue further compensation for the accident, as the case will be considered closed.
Dealing with the insurance adjuster is another strenuous part of the ordeal. They are in charge of assessing the extent of the damage, reviewing your medical records, and reviewing all of the factors that caused your accident. Using this information, they will calculate and offer.
The most important thing to remember is that insurance companies are in business to make money, not pay out injury claims. This means they devote extensive time and resources to defending against claims and doing whatever they can to pay victims as little as possible. In short, insurance companies are not on your side.
What should I do if I am not satisfied with the offer?
We advise you before any claims processes or negotiations begin to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney promptly following an accident. Your attorney can not only handle all of the negotiations on your behalf, but also advocate for your rights to ensure you are fully and fairly compensated, and that the insurance company plays by the rules.
You may need to provide the following information when you speak with your lawyer:
- All medical documentation and paperwork
- A copy of the police report
- Evaluation of the extent of the damage done (e.g., your vehicle, property damage, etc.)
- Documentation of all financial factors, such as lost income
Typically, insurance companies are looking to protect their own insured as well as their own assets, so the figure that is initially drawn up may be quite low—much lower than what one might expect. Although every case is different, an attorney from our firm can help you better understand your rights and what we can do to help you secure the maximum compensation possible.
What can an attorney do for me?
Most personal injury cases do not make it all the way to trial; most of the time, both sides can come to some form of agreement. Just keep in mind, however, that you deserve to have rightful compensation, and that in the case an insurance company does not make a fair offer, you can have a proven lawyer on your side ready to litigate. You already have an advantage, as you know what to expect and what to look out for during the claims process. You can further strengthen the weight of your claim by calling The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC to help you.
Have a claim and need assistance? Do not hesitate to contact us! We offer no-cost case consultations.