A total of 160 fatalities and even more injuries related to car accidents were reported in the first quarter of 2023, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation. This is quite an alarming statistic, though it also means that victims of car accidents and their families can qualify for and recover economic and non-economic damages from insurance companies.
One of the most overwhelming things after a car accident has to be dealing with insurance companies. Insurers will do their best to minimize their financial liability. If successful, victims may be short-changed and may not receive fair compensation for damages.
However, dealing with insurance companies can be easier when you have a car accident law firm on your side that is dedicated to protecting your rights. An experienced lawyer will help you determine all the recoverable damages. The lawyer will investigate and gather the evidence required to substantiate these damages.
What to Do
The compensation you can expect from car accident settlements depends on several factors. Primary factors include the type of accident and the type and severity of the injuries sustained during the accident. The settlement amount also depends on whether or not there were any fatalities and the extent of the damage to your vehicle.
Negotiations with insurance companies can run more smoothly, and you have a better chance of getting fair compensation when you engage a qualified car accident lawyer. Here is a rundown of essential pointers to keep in mind
1. Document Everything
Take clear pictures and videos documenting the accident scene, damage to the vehicles involved, and your injuries. Also, journal the details of the accidents while they’re still fresh and keep copies of the police report.
Ensure you also keep track of medical bills and other expenses related to the car accident, including vehicle repair estimates. If you cannot get back to work following the accident, ensure you keep track of the lost wages. Keep copies of all your medical records, medical diagnoses, and doctor recommendations.
Also, keep a strict record of your communication with the insurance company. All these records will be critical in meriting your claim when you file with the insurance company. The evidence will help you prove liability, and the medical records, repair estimates, and related documents will be invaluable to your lawyer when valuing your claim.
2. Saying Less Is Doing More
What you say to the insurance company can and will be used against you. Avoid apologizing to the insurance company, as this may easily be misconstrued as an admission of fault or guilt. Communicate clearly when providing details of the accident without being dishonest or exaggerating.
It’s always best to hire a lawyer early on so you have an expert’s opinion on the dos and don’ts of your communication with insurance company adjusters. If the adjusters ask for information or ask questions for which you need more preparation, you can always refer them to your lawyer.
3. Don’t Sign Anything Without Due Diligence
Be wary of any documents the insurance company asks you to sign. In most cases, the contents of these documents are such that they may restrict or limit your legal rights and may keep you from being able to pursue your claim’s full value.
Hand over any documents you receive from the insurance company to your lawyer, including settlement offers. The lawyer will review the documents and advise you on the next steps.
4. Let the Experts Take Over
When you hire one, your lawyer will handle the insurance companies. The lawyer will send a letter of representation to the insurance providers involved in your case to inform them that you are their client and that the lawyer will be acting on your behalf.
Insurance companies will want to bombard you so much that you may want to settle quickly. From sending over a lot of paperwork to requesting statements and other documents and offering settlement offers that may seem attractive. By hiring a lawyer to represent your interests, you can enjoy peace of mind as the insurance companies will no longer contact you directly but will communicate through your lawyer.
The lawyer will handle all negotiations and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation. If negotiations with the insurance company don’t arrive at a fair settlement, your lawyer can represent you in court.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer Today
A qualified Cape Girardeau car accident lawyer in your corner will help you navigate the claims process and deal with insurance companies. Contact a lawyer today to handle the insurers and pursue maximum compensation for your damages.
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