What Should I Do After an Accident?
- Get as many names and as much contact information as possible
- Ask if the other driver was working at the time, ask about employer.
- Call your insurance agent as soon as possible.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, damage and injuries.
- Document everything that happens, including all your medical bills and other to expenses.
- Be honest and forthcoming with your insurer. Omissions and half-truths will cause problems.
- Review your current policy and coverage.
- Make a list of your other policies. They may have coverage.
Here's what
not to do after an accident:
- Don’t say things to the other party like “Don’t worry about it”, “I’m so sorry”, and “Oh, it wasn’t your fault.” You mean well, but they will be used against you and can ruin your case.
- Don’t give a statement without an attorney present.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement for injuries. You don’t know the extent of your injuries.
- Don’t accept a payment marked as “final payment.”
- Don’t accept anything that seems unfair, even if it is written by a lawyer for the insurance company.
- Don’t miss the deadlines. Insurance companies don’t take action without claims and claims don’t file themselves. If you miss a deadline, it is probably the end of your case.
What an Attorney Could Do for You
When you hire an attorney from SGL Injury Law, you kick off a series of actions:
Communicating with the Other Driver’s Insurer
Right from the start, we handle the talks with the other driver’s insurance company. We give them a heads-up on your claim, ensuring they're aware of the upcoming details and the seriousness of the situation. This sets the stage for credible and effective negotiations later on.
Obtaining Necessary Evidence of Liability
To build your case, we dive deep into the accident details. We gather everything from police reports to witness statements, ensuring we prove that the other driver was at fault. Our expert investigators help us collect the solid evidence needed to align with California's legal standards for proving negligence.
Obtaining Necessary Evidence of Damages
We meticulously document all damages—from physical injuries to emotional distress. Understanding the full extent of your damages is crucial, and we work closely with medical professionals to ensure every aspect of your harm is accounted for and proven through medical records and expert testimonies.
Negotiating the Settlement
Leveraging our extensive experience, we negotiate with insurance companies to secure a settlement that reflects the true value of your claim. We use sophisticated strategies and a keen understanding of insurance algorithms to push for the maximum possible compensation.
Negotiating with Lien Holders
If your case involves liens from healthcare or insurance providers, we handle those negotiations too. Our goal is to ensure these liens don't undermine your financial recovery, negotiating diligently to maximize your take-home compensation.
Dealing with Your Own Insurance Company
Dealing with your own insurer can be tricky, especially if they attempt to minimize your claim. We advocate on your behalf to counter low offers and misleading tactics, ensuring your coverage is fully utilized and your rights are protected.