Car accidents can be overwhelming, leaving you unsure of what steps to take next. It’s natural to want to move on quickly, but making informed decisions is crucial. You can improve the process by knowing what you can claim and why you should think twice before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance carrier before speaking with a lawyer.
What can I recover?
Filing a claim with the help of a lawyer can help improve your chances of a better recovery, physically and financially. Depending on the details of the crash and your injuries, you could receive:
- Medical expenses: These include hospital bills, modification expenses, equipment costs, rehabilitation costs, and any future medical care related to the accident.
- Lost wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, you could be reimbursed for the income you lost during that time or expect to lose in the future.
- Pain and suffering: These damages include compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
- Property damage: Recovery could include money to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
Understanding these potential recoveries can help you see why it’s vital to assess all your options before settling.
Think carefully before accepting settlements!
If an insurance company contacts you with a settlement offer, it might seem like a quick way to resolve the situation. However, accepting an offer without consulting a lawyer can be a mistake. Here’s why:
- Incomplete compensation: Initial offers often don’t cover all your expenses, especially future costs.
- Pressure tactics: Insurance companies might pressure you to settle quickly to minimize their payout.
- Legal rights and responsibilities: You might unknowingly waive your rights to further compensation, by accepting an early offer or signing the wrong release, or accidentally obligate yourself to reimburse or pay current medical bills by failing to include certain language in the release.
It is important to take the time to review your options carefully and thoughtfully. An experienced attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf, protecting your interests.
Moving forward with confidence!
Knowing what you can recover and why legal representation is essential can help you make informed decisions after a car accident. By taking the right steps and avoiding hasty actions, you will likely increase your chances of receiving the compensation you truly deserve.