How to Deal With the Insurance Company After a Car Accident
You have to deal with the insurance company if you even get into a car accident.
They are responsible for offering you compensation for the damages if you or the other responsible party is a policy holder.
But the problem is – insurance companies are smart and often use different tactics to undermine your claim.
The insurance adjuster might act like they are trying to help you when, in reality, all they want to do is make a profit.
To outsmart them, you need to hire a car accident lawyer. Unlike the insurance companies, they are your allies and will work in your favor to demand a rightful claim settlement.
Here are some other tips you can follow to deal with the insurance company after a car accident.
- Know your rights
Before you proceed with anything pertaining to the car accident, make sure you know your rights. If you suffer due to someone else’s fault, it is your legal right to get compensation for the damages.
It is best to get a consultation from an auto accident law firm to get advice and know the best course of action. Most attorneys offer free consultations to clients.
- Document all the evidence
This is the most important tip you need to follow. To make your case strong, document all the evidence. Get a copy of the police report along with medical records.
You should also take pictures of the accident site, damaged cars, injuries, and number plates. If there are witnesses around, you should get their contact details.
- Inform the insurance company
After calling the police and receiving immediate medical help, inform your insurance company. Don’t delay in notifying them, or else they can use it against you.
- Don’t give any statement
When you talk to the insurance company, don’t give any statement. You are not entitled to give them in-depth details. They might ask tricky questions and record them to undermine your claim.
What you say will be used against you, so avoid talking to them without the guidance of a car accident attorney.
- Avoid signing any documents
Be cautious if the insurance company wants you to sign a medical release form granting access to your health records. They may request information for a long period, possibly looking for pre-existing conditions to minimize or deny your claim. Don’t sign without talking to a knowledgeable auto accident law firm.
- Keep a record of everything
Car accident claims can take time to settle, so it is best to maintain a record of all the things. Apart from documents, you can keep a record of all the meetings, negotiations, doctor appointments, or other key details.
- Don’t settle for a lesser amount
Car accident insurance settlements are permanent, and you cannot expect to receive an additional amount later on. So, avoid missing out on future medical or income needs by rushing into a settlement. Take your time and let a car accident attorney help you assess all your damages thoroughly.
- Take them to the court
If the insurance company doesn’t agree to pay you the rightful amount, you can take them to court. Hire a professional auto accident law firm to file a case on your behalf. They will represent you in the court and fight to get a fair compensation.
Conclusion
These are some essential tips you can follow when dealing with the insurance company after a car accident. Remember that you don’t have to fight alone. It is advisable to hire a car accident attorney at the beginning to handle everything for you while you recover from the injury.