If you have been in a car accident, you know that it can be a very traumatic experience. Not only are you dealing with the physical and emotional injuries from the crash, but you also have to deal with the stress of dealing with insurance companies and lawyers. This can be very overwhelming, especially if you are not familiar with the process. That is why we have put together this list of tips to help you get compensated after a car accident.
Document The Scene Of The Accident ASAP
If you have been in a car accident, one of the most important things that you can do is to document the scene of the accident as soon as possible. This means taking pictures of the damage to your vehicle, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and making sure that you get a police report. This documentation will be vital when it comes time to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. An Oakland-based law firm recommends that you take these steps as soon as possible after the accident. Then, you can focus on your recovery without having to worry about the legalities.
Seek Medical Attention
Michael Ehline of Ehline Law Firm car accident attorneys here, says: “If you are injured in a car accident, it is important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is still important to have them checked out by a doctor. This will not only ensure that you receive the proper treatment for your injuries, but it will also create a record of your injuries which will be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim.”
If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company may try to argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim or that they were pre-existing conditions. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention right away and to follow your doctor’s orders regarding your treatment.
There are a number of different injuries that you could suffer in a car accident. Some of the more common ones include whiplash, concussion, broken bones, and soft tissue damage. However, you could also suffer from more serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage.
Get Repair Estimates For Property Damage
If you were not at fault in the accident, the other driver’s insurance company should be responsible for repairing your vehicle. However, they may try to give you a lowball estimate for the repairs. It is important that you get your own estimates from reputable auto body shops. This will ensure that you are fairly compensated for the damage to your vehicle.
The insurance company may also try to lowball you on the value of your car. If your car is totaled in the accident, they will give you the Kelley Blue Book value of your car. However, this may not be an accurate representation of what your car is actually worth. You can get a second opinion on the value of your car from a reputable dealership.
Be Patient, Professional, and Persistent
You will likely be anxious to get the process over with and receive your compensation, but it is important to be patient. The insurance company may try to stall or low-ball you, but if you are patient and follow the tips in this blog post, you will eventually get what you deserve.
It is also important to be professional when communicating with the insurance company. You may be upset, but remember to remain calm and polite. Lastly, be persistent. If you feel like you are not getting anywhere, do not give up. Keep following up with the insurance company until you get the compensation you deserve.
Talk To A Lawyer
If you’ve been in a car accident, one of the first things you should do is talk to a lawyer. An experienced personal injury attorney will know how to deal with the insurance companies and get you the compensation you deserve. Don’t try to handle everything on your own – let a professional help you navigate the legal system and get the money you’re entitled to.
Most personal injury lawyers will handle your case on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win. This arrangement gives you the opportunity to have an experienced professional on your side without having to worry about upfront costs. Many people don’t realize that they can afford a lawyer after an accident – but with a contingency fee, there’s nothing to lose by at least talking to one.
In conclusion, if you’ve been in a car accident, there are a few things you should do to ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries and damages. First, seek medical attention right away and follow your doctor’s orders. Next, get repair estimates for your property damage from reputable auto body shops. Finally, be patient, professional, and persistent when dealing with the insurance company.
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