While car accidents happen frequently, most people don’t know how to protect their best interests in the aftermath of it all. Victims of car accidents tend to suffer physically and financially, along with being taken advantage of by opposing parties who know how to manipulate them. But the more information people have about how to protect themselves, the more empowered they will feel to advocate for their own behalf. So what do victims really need to know about car accidents? Here we have aimed to answer that question.
Who can gather evidence if I am unable to?
If you were ushered to the hospital because of severe injury, then you were probably not able to gather proof of the accident. Helpful evidence can include photographs and video of the area and your visible injuries and the other driver’s details, in addition to debri or other items that are found at the scene. You can have friends or family visit the accident site to get evidence for you, or the responding officer may have done so already. If not, then your lawyer from the Morales Law Firm can begin investigations and gathering of evidence as soon as they take on your case.
What should I say to an insurance adjuster?
If you reported the accident to your insurance, then you will be contacted by an insurance adjuster. They typically call within the days to follow, to request a statement about what happened. You must be wary of the words you use when speaking with an adjuster, as they are looking for statements to misconstrue and use against you. An insurance adjuster does not have your best interest in mind, no matter how friendly they are. Your lawyer may decide handling this phone call for you instead is recommended.
How do I know when to accept a settlement offer?
Insurance companies know the value of your claim, and they will go to great lengths to prevent you from receiving them. Insurance companies are still for-profit, and want to save as much money as possible, even if that causes difficulty for the victim. Rarely should you accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company, as it’s probably only a fraction of the total value. Insurance companies want claimants to think that they have no choice but to accept their offer, but it’s actually the contrary. Victims have the right to negotiate for compensation that covers their current and future damages and losses.
Is there anything accident victims tend to forget?
Do not forget how impactful social media can be after a car accident. Once you report your injuries and initiate a claim for compensation, you may be monitored by parties who want to reduce or deny your claim. Since social media is a common form of communication, you may be tempted to share the accident with your friends and family. However, as your lawyer from the Morales Law Firm would suggest, it may be best to avoid social media use until the outcome of your claim has concluded.
