Did you know that there are over 3,000 deaths every day due to a car accident? On top of that number, there are between 20-50 million people that are injured or disabled every year thanks to a car accident. With these statistics in mind, it is important to know how to get the most money from a car accident if you are ever involved in one.
We are going to cover helpful ways to make sure that you are not taken advantage of when it comes to your car accident injury claim. Keep reading below to learn more.
Do Not Leave the Scene
A huge tip is to NOT leave the scene right after the accident happens, even if you’re running late to work or to an important meeting. If someone has been hurt or in a worst-case scenario killed and you leave the scene you can have serious penalties. You can possibly even face criminal charges for being a hit and run driver.
An exception to this is if you feel you are in an unsafe area then drive to the closest police station. Leaving the scene for anything other than this reason will also affect how much money you will receive for your accident. Leaving tells the insurance companies that you were fine and your vehicle is still driveable.
If for any reason your accident already occurred and you left the scene and now need a lawyer then make sure to contact someone with experience like Neale Fhima, abogados de la ley de limón. You will always want a lawyer in your corner.
Document
While you are waiting for the police to arrive at the scene get out of the vehicle and take pictures and videos of the scene. If there are any witnesses around make sure you talk to them and document what they say about the accident they witnessed. Make sure to ask permission to videotape their version of what happened before you begin recording.
This might sound silly but write down what happened. You’d be surprised how quickly you can forget the details because of the trauma and everything else you will have to deal with following the accident. Ask the witnesses to please write down their statements as well and get their contact information.
Documenting as much as you can will ensure that you are covered when it comes to getting paid the most for your accident. When you have proof the insurance company can’t say otherwise. At that point, it becomes their word against the proof you collected.
Call the Police
This should be the first thing that you do after the accident because the police will write up a formal report about what happened and what they saw when they arrived at the scene. This will make a huge difference for the insurance company. A cop is considered a credible source for the insurance agency and without a police report, they can significantly reduce your claim amount.
Hire an Attorney
We touched on this earlier you will want an attorney in your corner that is experienced. A lawyer will know the ins and out of the laws and how to get you the money that you deserve. They will ensure that you are not taken advantage of by the insurance company.
All insurance companies are in the business to make money. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible when it comes to accidents. The less they pay the more profits they gain.
Sometimes people believe that their insurance agent is on their side but the truth is that the lawyer will have your best interest at heart. Even if you feel that your accident is very minor and doesn’t require an attorney, schedule a consultation with one in your area because they might give you insight into your case.
Something that is good with an attorney for personal injury and accidents is that they typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that your lawyer will only receive a payment if you are awarded a settlement. If they lose the case then they receive no money.
If your insurance company reaches you about reaching a settlement do not say yes until you speak with your attorney. They might be trying to give you less than you deserve and are truly entitled to. It is important for you to walk away from everything feeling like your settlement was fair especially if your injuries have been lifechanging.
Visit a Doctor
You will want to make sure you are checked out by a doctor even if you feel fine. After an accident, your adrenaline is usually at an all-time high and you might not realize that you are in pain. Even if you feel a tiny amount of pain anywhere make sure you mention it, that way it’s on file.
These files and medical records will come in handy when your attorney is fighting for you.
Now You Know How to Get the Most Money From a Car Accident
Now that you know how to get the most money from a car accident you should feel better equipped next time you are in an accident or if you know anyone that gets into an accident. A car accident is already stressful and an emotional time, there is no need to add to the stress by not receiving a settlement amount that you deserve.
Make sure you come back soon for more great articles!
