Car accidents have been increasing due to major economic advancements that have allowed Americans to move goods conveniently and quickly between locations. While this has strengthened the economic environment in different states, the use of motor vehicles has also resulted in a higher number of accidents on our roads. As a consequence, more individuals are forced to negotiate with their auto insurance companies, whether it is for property damage or a personal injury claim.
Unfortunately, settling a claim with an insurance company is not always straightforward. Insurance companies are primarily focused on maximizing their profits, and this may include acting in bad faith towards their clients. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a trusted auto wreck attorney in your area to ensure that you put your best foot forward when dealing with insurers. Our firm specializes in personal injury claims and wrongful death cases arising from motor vehicle accidents, and we are available to guide you through the usually complex compensation process.
To help you negotiate successfully with insurance companies, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Make a Claim As Soon as Possible
As soon as you have received medical attention for your injuries and notified the relevant local authorities about the car accident, it is crucial that you contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process. It is important to give the insurance company enough time to set up your claim, which can take several weeks or months. Keep in mind that all insurance policies have terms and conditions that must be fulfilled in case of an insured risk. For instance, some policies stipulate the time limits within which an accident must be reported to the insurance companies. Therefore, regardless of whether you intend to file a claim or not, it is essential to notify your insurer as soon as possible.
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Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you have any doubts about the value of your claim or would like to seek the advice of a professional, it is advisable to call a personal injury lawyer first. A reliable attorney can even counsel you on whether it’s best to handle the claim yourself without the need for an attorney. However, if your injury claim is complex or involves significant medical bills, it is recommended that you seek legal assistance before pursuing the claim on your own. Your legal team will help you gather all the relevant facts about your case before engaging with insurance companies. Furthermore, an experienced car accident attorney is the ideal ally to deal with selfish insurance adjusters who may attempt to deny you your rightful compensation.
Review All Your Damages
When making demands to your insurance company, whether through a demand letter or over the phone, it is essential to have an approximate figure in mind of the amount you wish to receive as a settlement. However, it is not recommended to disclose this amount to the insurance adjuster. Instead, you need to understand the total costs and damages incurred as a result of the accident. For instance, what are your total past and future medical bills? Have you missed any work, and what is the monetary value of this missed time? Do you have any permanent injuries, and if so, to what extent will they affect your life?
The answers to these questions will determine the total value of your injury claim, which you should be aware of before beginning the negotiation process. This value will adequately compensate for the harms caused, and it is crucial to have a clear understanding of it before entering negotiations.
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Do Not Accept the Initial Offer
The first offer you receive from your insurance company is usually an attempt to test your negotiation skills. More often than not, this initial offer will be too low and not reflect the full extent of your losses. It is important not to be taken aback or offended by this offer. Instead, consider making a counter offer or consulting with a legal professional who can handle the negotiation for you. If you accept the offer too quickly, you may forfeit your right to pursue further compensation from your insurer, effectively giving up all your rights. Therefore, it is advisable to let a skilled attorney review any offers made before making any decisions.
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Talk To Our Team Today
If you have been involved in an accident, the most valuable asset you can have is a skilled personal injury attorney. With their expertise in handling similar cases, your attorney can ensure a smoother and more transparent legal process. Our team at Lone Star Injury Attorneys is committed to helping you effectively deal with insurance companies. Call our office today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you.
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