When you need to file a car accident claim, is it really necessary to hire a lawyer? Some victims choose to navigate this process alone, attempting to negotiate with the insurance companies for a fair settlement.
But there are many issues that can arise if you file a car accident claim without lawyer support. Even though it might be a simple case and seem fairly straightforward, you need to understand one important fact: insurance companies are working hard to reduce the amount of money that they will pay out of pocket. If you are trying to reach a settlement without talking to a car accident lawyer, then it’s likely that you will receive less compensation than you deserve.
Our team is here to help with your car accident claim. Not only do we work hard to maximize your settlement, but we also have various strategies to seek justice and protect your rights.
Why Car Accident Claims Are So Complex
The reality is that the car accident claim process can be quite confusing and complex. This process involves more than getting reimbursement for the repair bills. Victims usually need help with medical expenses, lost wages, long-term care costs, pain and suffering, and more.
Instead of settling for the basic offerings, it’s essential to build a case that shows how much injuries are impacting your life. The more evidence you bring to the case, the better leverage you have to negotiate a maximum settlement. For this reason, it makes sense to hire an experienced attorney who can assist with the investigation.
Too often, victims who try to negotiate with the insurance company on their own find the process to be confusing and overwhelming. If you aren’t familiar with these legal processes, then it’s likely that you will make mistakes along the way.
An experienced attorney understands the complexities that need to be navigated through this process, helping you avoid the most common mistakes that could impact your compensation.
Remember: Insurance Companies are Not Protecting Your Interests
One of the reasons why car accident negotiation is so important is because the insurance company is not on your side. Yes, they will go through the motions to review and pay for a car insurance claim. But their main focus is on managing costs and protecting their profit margins.
Throughout the negotiation process, you’ll find that insurance adjusters use a variety of tactics to reduce payouts. They might offer fast, low-ball settlements in an effort to minimize negotiations and court proceedings in the future. Additionally, any statements that you provide to the insurance company could potentially be used against you.
Hiring a skilled car accident injury attorney is one of the best things you can do during this time. You need a lawyer who knows the tactics commonly used by insurance representatives. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf and leverage legal strategies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Don’t Accept a Low-Ball Offer for Your Claim
We understand your desire to settle the claim as soon as possible. But keep in mind that the first offer that comes through is likely a fraction of what you can receive through negotiation. Never agree to the first settlement offer without talking to an experienced car accident attorney.
One common mistake that car accident victims make is underestimating the future impact of their injuries and damages. It’s likely that you will have continuing costs for things such as ongoing medical costs, rehabilitation and therapy, reduced or lost earning capability, mental health support, and more.
Also, you can negotiate for non-economic damages to cover your emotional distress. An experienced attorney will help with a full assessment of your claim while considering all factors that need to be addressed. It’s possible to bring in experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and/or medical professionals, to provide support for your claim.
Professional Services for Your Personal Injury Claim
Another reason why it makes sense to hire a car accident attorney is because they can help you navigate legal requirements and deadlines. For example, there are usually statutes of limitations that limit the window of time in which you can file the claim. If you miss this deadline, then you could be giving up the opportunity to receive compensation.
Other legal requirements also need to be addressed, such as proper paperwork and reporting for the insurance company. Usually, specific documentation needs to be handled for different claims, ensuring that everything is included – such as witness statements, medical records, and more.
Your attorney will ensure that your claim is backed by solid evidence and all of the proper paperwork is in place. Hiring a skilled car accident attorney is one of the best decisions you will make to protect your legal rights and options.
FAQ
How to get the most money out of a crash?
In addition to receiving reimbursement for repairing car accident damage, also talk to your lawyer about other types of compensation that could apply to your case. Your attorney will negotiate for medical bills, lost wages, and other money that you might receive.
What is the average settlement for a car accident in Texas?
The payouts vary depending on the severity of the accident and your injuries. For this reason, you need an experienced lawyer who will help to maximize the money that will be paid out for your case.
Can you claim for pain and suffering?
Yes, you can receive additional compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. The amount of money you receive depends on the extent to which your injuries are affecting your life.
How much can someone sue for a car accident in Texas?
In the state of Texas, there is no limit on the amount of compensatory damages that can be paid for personal injury. But there are caps for punitive damages: $200,000 or 2x the economic damages.
Call the Car Accident Experts
You deserve legal representation that you can trust. If you need help with your car accident claim, then Wormington & Bollinger is the team to call. For more information, contact us today.