Having a car accident can leave you jolted physically and mentally. Unfortunately, you often have to juggle priorities as you travel between medical appointments and handle your day-to-day responsibilities. On top of that, you may have to file a claim with your car insurance company when you have little energy left over. A car accident lawyer can provide hope and support during this difficult time.
The team at Ledger Law Firm will help you deal with insurance companies when you need to file an auto accident claim. Our car accident lawyers will help you defend your rights and receive any compensation you deserve. Follow these tips to master the art of dealing with insurance companies after a car accident.
Promptly Reporting the Accident
Do you want to avoid claim disputes and denials? Start by quickly reporting the accident to your insurance company. Reporting the accident as soon as possible can also help you meet your policy terms.
When you report the accident, include the following information:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Contact details and insurance information of the other driver(s)
- How the accident occurred and who caused it
- Estimate of vehicle damage
- Details regarding any injuries you sustained
- Photos of the accident scene and all vehicles involved
- Witness contact information
- Police report
Communicating with the Insurance Adjuster
Consult a car accident lawyer before giving any statements or signing any documents. While you should cooperate with the insurance adjuster, don’t accept any offers without consulting your attorney. Remember who the adjuster works for. It’s in the insurance company’s best interest to minimize or dispute your claim. On the other hand, your lawyer will defend your interests, even if that means taking the car insurance company to court.
Tips for Documenting Damages
Documenting the damage provides valuable information to support your claim. Provide your car accident attorney with the following items:
- Pictures of the damage to your vehicle.
- Photographs of any injuries suffered by you or your passengers.
- Receipts or estimates for vehicle repairs.
- Medical records and bills related to car accident injuries.
Understanding Policy Coverage
Do you understand what your car insurance covers? A car accident attorney can review your policy carefully, noting any gaps in coverage. You can also perform your own review, starting with the declarations page containing policy limits, deductibles, and premiums.
The policy also documents the terms, conditions, and exclusions that apply to your accident coverage. Our team can also outline applicable state laws impacting auto accident insurance.
Do You Have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
This coverage will reimburse you for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other expenses. Basically, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage kicks in when the responsible driver has no insurance, or if they don’t have enough coverage to pay your expenses. This insurance also covers hit-and-run accidents.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement
To negotiate a fair settlement, you need a reliable car accident lawyer. Insurance companies hire their own team of lawyers focused on minimizing expenses related to accident claims. With a personal injury attorney on your side, you can maximize your chances of receiving a fair settlement.
Our expertise includes thoroughly researching your case, gathering all the required medical and property damage documentation, and negotiating with the applicable insurance companies. Let us help you recover medical expenses as well as money spent on car repairs and lost wages. You may also be eligible for additional damages due to emotional distress.
Although it can be tempting to settle for the first offer from your insurance company, you risk losing a large percentage of what you’re entitled to. Your car accident lawyer will help you remain patient so that you can potentially achieve a higher payout.
Dealing with Denials and Disputes
What if your insurance company denies your claim? Start by determining the reason for the denial or dispute. Review the letter from the adjuster and work with one of our qualified attorneys to write a rebuttal letter, including any additional evidence that can help your claim go through successfully. It’s important to respond to the insurance company before the statute of limitations runs out.
Filing a Complaint
If you feel like your insurance company has violated your rights, reach out to our team to determine whether they are engaging in unfair practices or have acted in bad faith. Your attorney will help you negotiate a settlement or file a complaint with the appropriate authorities.
Consider negotiation, arbitration, or mediation before filing a complaint. Once you file a complaint, those avenues are no longer available. It’s essential to provide as much information as possible to help your attorney present your complaint to the state insurance department or attorney general’s office.
Seeking Legal Advice
Seeking legal advice can help you obtain the best possible compensation for your losses. Our personal injury lawyers have helped many clients maximize their insurance payouts. Contact the Ledger Law Firm, one of the top accident law firms, at (800) 300-0001 for a free consultation regarding your case.
