After an auto accident, you’ll need to complete several steps to file a claim with the insurance company and resolve your claim issues. Here are some steps involved in the auto accident settlement process.
File a claim
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you’ll want to consider filing a claim as soon as possible. Filing a claim can help recover damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, vehicular repair costs, disability benefits, and so on.
Whoever is at fault would be primarily responsible for the accident. If the other driver is found at fault for an accident, they are liable to pay for damages. To file a personal injury claim, you’ll need to contact their auto insurance company at the earliest possible moment.
The process can be challenging. There’s no denying the value of a lawyer who understands the intricacies of such cases.
Auto accident investigation
Most insurance companies conduct accident investigations where they gather evidence and information to accept or refute your claim. This is done by an insurance adjuster who will look into the facts of your accident. The review includes investigating important evidence like police reports, statements from witnesses, photographs of the scene, the other party’s statement, the cars involved, medical records, proof of financial damages, and the scene of the accident.
At the end of an auto accident investigation, the insurer will either make an offer or deny your claim. The insurance company will determine how much loss the accident has caused you and how much financial settlement they are willing to offer you.
Consultation with experts
Insights gained from consultations with an experienced expert may help you obtain a fair settlement.
Don’t do everything on your own. Hire an attorney with experience dealing with auto accidents and can provide the guidance necessary to ensure you get the most out of your case. While you have the right to file a claim on your own, professional guidance from an experienced auto accident attorney can help you navigate the system correctly.
The doctor’s diagnosis will play an essential role during the settlement phase of your claim by providing the insurance company with crucial information regarding your injury. The medical expert may also estimate your future medical costs.
An accident expert will help determine the details of your accident, answer questions surrounding possible causes, and determine the negligent party. The reconstruction specialist can use 3D mapping to re-create what happened and help prove liability.
Seek a fair settlement
Insurance companies will probably accept your claim and offer you a much lower settlement amount so that they can avoid paying more. You have a legal right to negotiate for a fair settlement because it’s important to be compensated for the costs and injuries you’ve suffered.
Insurance adjusters are very familiar with personal injury law. They will try to get you to settle for less than the full compensation you deserve. You’ll need a lawyer that knows how to handle insurers.
The time it takes to settle an auto accident settlement can vary greatly depending on the accident’s circumstances. Most cases take at least one full year to be resolved if they are taken to court. However, many people settle disputes related to auto accidents out of court.
Litigation
A lawsuit can be filed if the insurance company and your attorney cannot reach an agreement. A lawsuit allows you to sue for compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages arising from the accident.
It may be a difficult decision whether or not to sue, as a lawsuit can be expensive and tiring. However, it may also be the best recourse. If you do not wish to go to court, reaching an agreement with the other party through mediation is still possible.
Get help today from a California auto accident lawyer
Auto accidents can have life-altering effects on victims and their families. Trying to navigate the legalities of an auto accident case requires experience and the skills of professionals in the legal field. Reach out to us today to schedule your free consultation.