Having a car accident can be frightening and upsetting, and if you have been injured, this can make it more so. Following the accident, you’ll likely submit a claim to your insurance company. The process can be confusing and tiresome, and when you are not at peak health, this can only add to the stress.
While many insurance companies perform their duties fairly, there can be instances where they try to cut corners, make the process difficult for you, and try to make your claim invalid to save themselves from paying out. With this in mind, here are some helpful tips to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and you don’t say or do anything that could harm your claim.
Hire a personal injury lawyer
The best thing you can do before you make your claim is to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you. Your lawyer can help you submit the necessary documents and make sure your interests are protected.
Make sure you make your claim following the proper procedures
Most insurance companies have a specific time frame by which you must submit your claim. They will also have particular procedures to go through. Make sure that you understand these and follow them to the letter. This will make sure that your claim is valid and you don’t miss out by waiting until it is too late to make your claim.
Record as much as possible at the time of the accident
Even though having an accident can leave you in shock, making sure you get as much information and write down as many details as possible can help make your claims process go smoothly and ensure that you get the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Try to stick to the facts and don’t assume blame
When talking to your insurers, try to stick to the facts and don’t be led off track. For less reputable insurers, it is possible they could try to trick you into saying something when being conversational, so try to keep communications polite and professional and make sure that you don’t assume blame, as this could harm the validity of your case.
Be polite and only agree to be recorded when you feel ready
It can be easy to let your emotions get the better of you when you are feeling stressed and are recovering from your injuries. However, this could lead you to say something that harms your case. Try to keep a cool head, even if your insurers are being difficult. If they ask to record you, only agree to do so when you feel ready and prepared.
Avoid trying to settle on your own
Leave the negotiations to your lawyer. They will work hard to make sure that you get the very best settlement and will know all the relevant processes and laws to determine all recoverable damages and notify your insurer of them. Sometimes insurers will offer a quick settlement in the hope that the individual will not hire a lawyer, but this could be because they know that doing so could lead to a much larger payout down the line.
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is crucial to understand your rights. Contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Karlin & Karlin for a free consultation, please call our Main Office: 213-365-1555 or Toll free: 888-365-1555, or via our contact us form.
