Tips for Navigating Car Accident Insurance Claims after a Crash

When you’re hurt and trying to heal, dealing with car accident insurance claims after a crash can be frustrating and overwhelming. At Moore Law Firm, our Mobile car accident lawyers have helped more than 15,000 clients navigate the insurance and legal system. We help you understand your rights and advise you on the most effective course of action after a car accident injury.

Document Everything

Although you may feel shell-shocked right after a crash, it’s important to stay calm and document what happened if possible. Call 911 and wait for the police to arrive. If you are able, take pictures of the scene and your injuries. Gather contact and insurance information from any drivers involved in the accident. It’s a good idea to obtain contact information for any witnesses as well.

Make sure to go to the emergency room or see a doctor as soon as possible. Getting the care you need protects your health and medical records provide valuable evidence should you decide to file a car accident insurance claim. Make sure to keep all bills and receipts for crash-related expenses. You may also want to keep a daily journal of how you’re feeling and how the accident and your injuries have affected your life.

Exercise Caution When Communicating with Your Insurer

Although you should contact your own car insurance company after an accident, choose your words carefully when speaking with them. Give them an honest, factual account of what happened, and do not admit fault. You may be wondering how much car insurance goes up after an accident — if you admit fault you may see a significant increase in your premiums. Most insurance companies do whatever they can to minimize payouts and deny claims.

Do Not Say Anything, Sign Anything, or Accept a Settlement

If a representative from the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, provide as little information as possible. You can give them your name, address, and phone number, but decline to discuss the accident or your injuries. Calls with insurers are recorded, and it’s easy for them to twist your words and claim their insured is not responsible or that you were at fault. An insurance adjuster may also ask you to sign a release so they can obtain your medical records, which can be used against you if they claim your injury was due to a pre-existing condition.

Do not give a statement, sign anything or accept a settlement without first consulting with an Alabama car accident lawyer. Although it can be tempting to accept their first offer, there is no need to rush. If you sign a release of liability and accept a settlement, you give up the right to bring any additional accident-related claims against them. If you accept a settlement and later find out you need more treatment for a condition such as traumatic brain injury, you may find that the amount doesn’t come close to covering your medical bills.

Seek the Assistance of a Personal Injury Lawyer

Before you file a claim with your own insurer or another driver’s car insurance after an accident, have a personal injury attorney evaluate your case. Many injured victims have questions like whose insurance pays in a multi-car accident, how long it may take to receive compensation, and whether they even have a valid claim. A car accident attorney can answer these questions for you, take a comprehensive look at the situation, determine who may be at fault, and give you straightforward advice on the most effective way to proceed.

Why You Need a Lawyer to Help With Your Car Accident Insurance Claim

Attempting to file a car insurance accident claim on your own can be daunting. Hiring a lawyer can increase your chances of maximizing your recovery and obtaining all possible sources of compensation. Car accident lawyers are familiar with the underhanded tactics that insurance companies try to employ to deny or reduce claims. They handle all negotiations and communications with insurers, which can take a huge weight off your shoulders.

Not only that, car accident insurance claims can be complex and require extensive documentation and evidence. A motor vehicle accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case and fight to hold negligent parties and their insurers accountable. An attorney may be able to help you recover damages such as the cost of medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other accident-related losses.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in Mobile, AL

At Moore Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping make things right for injured accident victims and their families. We navigate the car accident insurance process so you don’t have to. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney in Mobile, call us at 251-445-7602, use the convenient chat feature on our website, or contact us today.