A car accident attorney is your advocate, fighting for you against the insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve. Your attorney can also help you prove your damages, such as pain and suffering.
Lawyers always advise people to see their doctor for a complete physical examination after a crash. It can reveal injuries you might not have noticed in the immediate aftermath of the collision.
Medical Treatment
Most people involved in auto accidents will sustain injuries from the collision unless they are fortunate. Following the accident, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is crucial to record any damages.
Even seemingly minor symptoms such as a headache, achy muscles, numbness, or swelling can indicate more severe injury and should not be ignored. If necessary, the doctor can recommend a course of treatment and assess the extent of your injuries.
Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys have one thing in common – they are concerned about their company’s bottom line. They will go to any lengths to lessen their financial obligation to you. It can help level the playing field and guarantee you get the most money possible for your injuries if you have legal representation from an auto insurance lawyer.
Insurance Claims
After an accident, you should report the incident to your insurance company immediately. Insurers typically want to gather evidence from several sources, including your photos of the scene, surveillance footage, and contact information for witnesses.
The insurer may send someone to inspect the damage. They will also likely ask you to provide a recorded statement. Be sure to consult your attorney before agreeing to this.
Before consenting to this, make sure you speak with your attorney.
Depending on your insurance policy and the specifics of your accident, you may make a first-party or third-party claim. If the car was driven or misdesigned, you may even be able to sue the manufacturer. Documenting your medical expenses and the value of your damaged vehicle is essential. If the car was made or misdesigned, you may even be able to sue the manufacturer.
Property Damage
Regardless of whether you suffered injuries, the property damage caused by a car accident is also something you may be entitled to recover compensation for. It includes things like the value of your vehicle, any electronics or other personal belongings you had in your car when the crash, and different types of damaged or lost property.
Collecting as much evidence at the crash scene as possible, including photos of the stage, witness testimony, and repair bills from auto body shops, is essential. Additional information about the value of your vehicle can also be helpful.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Many people are misled into believing that insurance companies treat everyone fairly. The truth is that insurance companies try to maximize their profits and limit the amount they pay for accidents.
During the settlement process, insurance adjusters will contact you and try to trick you into admitting fault or making statements that will later be used against you in court. It is important to only talk to the insurance company if your attorney directs you.
If the insurance company contacts you, your attorney will gather records to support your expenses and prepare a demand letter. An experienced attorney will know how to value your injuries correctly and what damages you are entitled to, including pain and suffering. It will help you reject their lowball offer and get what you deserve.
Filing a Lawsuit
A damages award usually covers severe pain and suffering brought on by auto accidents. Compensation may not erase your physical pain, but it can help you pay your bills and manage your life. An experienced lawyer can gather crucial evidence and build a strong claim. They are skilled at crafting a demand letter and negotiating the best possible settlement with the insurance provider.
If your injury meets the threshold set by state law for severe damage, you might be entitled to additional compensation over what the insurance company initially offers. An attorney can advise you of this threshold. They are also able to bring a lawsuit in your place. They will deal with the defense attorneys on your behalf while you focus on healing.
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