Car accidents are not only emotionally distressing, but they can also impose serious financial burdens on victims. Medical bills, vehicle repair or replacement costs and lost wages can all add up quickly, leaving a victim struggling to meet their monthly expenses. Fortunately, victims can recover compensation from the liable parties responsible for their losses, thanks to state and federal laws that set out strict standards of behavior for drivers on the road.
A qualified and experienced car accident lawyer can help a crash victim navigate the complicated legal process of filing an insurance claim or lawsuit to obtain compensation for their injuries and losses. The first step in this process is to schedule an initial consultation with the attorney, where they can explain their legal approach and discuss the specific details of the case.
The lawyer will examine the crash details and evidence, assessing liability and damages. This process may involve visiting the crash site to make observations, obtaining copies of all relevant documents, and reviewing medical records as they pertain to the victim’s injuries. The lawyer will also consider whether the crash was caused by negligence and, if so, how that negligence might have contributed to the incident.
When building a claim, the attorney will take into account not just current and future medical treatment costs, but also how the crash has impacted the victim’s quality of life, including any emotional impacts and any loss of enjoyment of recreational activities. They will also assess the impact of the crash on a victim’s work, if applicable.
One of the biggest things a car accident lawyer does is negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of their client. The insurance companies are looking out for their bottom line and will do everything they can to minimize the amount of money they offer. This is why it’s important to hire a lawyer who has experience handling these negotiations and knows how to fight back against the insurance companies’ tactics.
An experienced attorney will prepare a strong and comprehensive claim that includes documentation of all your losses. This will include medical bills, property damage estimates, wage statements and records of any missed work due to the accident, and any out-of-pocket expenses such as transportation costs and medication.
The lawyer will then file the claim with the insurer and keep track of the progress of the case, ensuring that it is processed on time and within the statute of limitations. If the insurance company is not willing to provide a reasonable settlement, a lawsuit will be filed against the at-fault party.