Have you been to a car accident that was not your fault and sustained minor or major injuries?
If you know your rights, you know that you should get compensation for both the injuries and damages. However, if you have never gone through a car accident settlement process, it may initially seem daunting.
Although negotiating a settlement is never fun, having the right information can be of great help. That is why we came up with this car accident settlement process guide. So how do car accident settlements work?
The Initial Steps of Car Accident Settlement Process
After being involved in an auto accident, you are advised to fill your claim with the insurer as soon as possible.
In this case, the insurance cover of the driver at fault should be used. Being a third-party, the claim process is made easy as claim forms can be filled online.
However, you need to do this as soon as possible to ensure the accuracy of the information given and avoid forgetting some details.
The Investigation
After the insurer has received your claim, they will start an investigation on the accident.
Insurers use an insurance claims adjuster to check police reports, medical records, statements from witnesses, the statement from the other driver, and photos of the accident scene for their validity.
Next, they will talk to experts to determine the extent of mechanical damage on your vehicle.
Also, they will consult with doctors to identify the short-term and long-term health implications of the injuries. This will then be used in determining a settlement amount.
Although the insurer will do a thorough investigation, they will mostly report findings that favor them and their clients.
Therefore, you should conduct an independent investigation. This investigation should be aimed at finding out who is liable and what caused the accident.
Claim Approval or Denial
After the investigation, the insurer will either approve or deny the accidental injury claims. If the claim is approved, it means that the insurer is agreeing to cover the at-fault’s driver actions under its policy.
If the claim is denied, it means that the insurance policy of the at-fault driver does not cover his conduct. In other cases, the claim might be denied for technical reasons.
Either way, the insurer should explain the denial.
Next Steps of Car Accident Injury Settlement Process
If your claim is denied, this is the right time to contact a car accident attorney. Conversely, if your claim cover is approved, you will receive a settlement offer. If the offer is low, you can always renegotiate for a fair settlement.
However, if you are having a hard time reaching an agreement with the insurer, it is best to have a mediator. Alternatively, you can file a lawsuit to help you get fair compensation. This article by Falkowitz Law Firm PLLC can be of great help in such an endeavor.
Bottom Line
The car accident settlement process can be made easier by having the right information at hand. But, if you still cannot get a fair settlement, consider hiring an auto accident lawyer.
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