Car accidents can be a life-altering event. The life of the victim can go upside down. It will not only have a physical impact but can also dent the mental and financial health. While seeking compensation after an accident is a perfectly logical step, it is not as straightforward as it seems. Handling an accidental claim can be tricky if not handled with care. This blog will answer the following questions: “Can Car Accident Personal Injury Claims Be Complicated to Handle?
As per my experience, the most challenging thing in personal injury claims is proving fault and liability. This is a general belief that insurance companies try to minimize the payouts. This means that the victim must provide solid evidence regarding medical reports, accidental reports, and witness statements. The next major hurdle will be negotiation with insurance adjusters. Sometimes, they offer a settlement amount that is very low, as deserved by the victim. Now, let’s dive deep into the topic of accidental claims and try to understand the complexity of personal injury claims.
Steps to Get Compensation in a Car Accident Personal Injury Claim
Filling out a form to get compensation after a car accident can be complex. Following the right steps can improve the chances of getting fair compensation. In the next half, we will guide you step-by-step on how to navigate the claim process.
Seek Medical Attention
Money and everything else are secondary; your health is a top priority. The first response after getting involved in an accident, whether minor, is to get medical attention. Delayed medical attention can worsen the injury and cause all sorts of damage.
Did you know? An insurance company can argue if, for any reason, there is a delay in medical intervention. The insurance company can build a case around the fact that the injuries were not serious.
Report the Accident
The next most important thing to do is to report the police about the accident. Keep your calm, get medical attention and report the accident. A police report serves as an official record of the accident and can be a critical element in proving fault and liability.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Site
This step will help you build your case. Try to gather evidence at the accident site, including:
- Photos and videos at the accident site can include injuries and other damage.
- The contact details of the party involved in the accident and the license and registration number can be critical.
- Witness statements in written or video format. Gathering their contact information is also vital.
- You can also note information like road conditions, traffic signals and other relevant information.
Notify your Insurance Company
- Report or inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
- Avoid admitting any fault; be factual about the accident. Do not try to make any detailed statement till you consult a legal professional.
Keep Records of Medical Expenses
- Keep a file for all medical bills, prescriptions and rehabilitation bills.
- Lost wages due to injury from the work.
- Keep separate bills for accident-related expenses, such as transportation for medical visits.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawer
If the accident involves serious injuries, damages or disputed liabilities, that may complicate the claim process. Better consult a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can
- Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Additional evidence, such as expert opinions, may be gathered.
- You can also file a lawsuit to get fair compensation.
Negotiate With Insurance Company
Till this step, negotiation has come into the picture. The insurance adjusters often settle the case with minimum compensation. Be very cautious while accepting any offer. In complex claim situations, you better stick with your attorney.
A lawyer will help you get compensation, covering all of your damages. That will include future medical attention, pain and suffering.
If Necessary, File a Lawsuit
Filing a lawsuit is the final step if negotiation fails with the insurance company during claim settlement. This process involves:
- The first step will be filing a complaint against the at-fault party.
- The next step is the sharing of evidence.
- Both the parties should aim to settle before the trial.
- The last step will be going to the court if the settlement amount is unfair.
Receive Compensation
Once the case is presented in front of the court and judgment is made in your favor, you will receive the compensation.
The amount will likely cover your medical expenses, lost wages and any other damage that has occurred due to the accident,
Conclusion
Claims that are related to the car accident can be complex and challenging at times. Gathering the evidence and building up the case can be difficult. Victims may struggle to secure the compensation they deserve without proper legal knowledge. In this blog, we have mentioned all the possibilities that will help you to get a fair settlement amount from the insurance company after a meeting with an accident.