When you’ve been injured in a car accident, dealing with the at-fault party’s insurance provider might be at the back of your mind. Many victims of personal injury are often preoccupied by more pressing issues: the injuries they’ve suffered, their medical bills, and recovering lost wages from missed work.
Engaging the at-fault party’s insurance company is essential, however, especially if you’re looking to recover compensation for the damages you’ve received. Earning the settlement you deserve is often complicated. Insurance companies may deny your request, or delay the process by failing to respond. If you’re wondering how to deal with car insurance after an accident, consulting an attorney can help.
Steps to Take After an Accident
After an accident, it’s normal to feel like you don’t know where to start. At the forefront of your mind, however, should be your recovery. Pursuing compensation from the party responsible for your damages is a process that can be immensely aided by taking the time to collect evidence related to your case.
If you’re physically able, take pictures of the crash site and damages to your property. This information can be corroborated by or included in a police report. Don’t worry—you can still file a police report, even if the accident already happened.
Any evidence you gather at this stage can be provided to your insurance company, or directly included in a claim you file with the at-fault party’s insurance. Another key piece of proof that will be considered by the responsible party’s insurance adjuster will be any medical reports filed in relation to your injury.
This is why going to seek treatment for your injuries is so important. Not only will it help you from a medical point of view, it also demonstrates to the insurance adjuster that you took your injuries serious enough to seek treatment—something that will likely be taken into consideration when deciding the value of your settlement.
Dealing with Car Insurance Companies During Your Settlement Negotiations
Although it may not always be necessary to file a formal lawsuit in civil court to get compensated for your damages, settling with the insurance company can still be a complicated process. Many accident victims find that negotiating is necessary in order to get closer to the real value of their damages.
The insurance company often tries to protect its bottom line by paying you the least possible amount. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer in Austin can empower you to negotiate with confidence, and possibly receive the largest settlement possible.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Austin
When you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t let an insurance company deny you the compensation you deserve. At Gibbs & Crivelli, Slingshot Law, we have what it takes to take on the insurance giants, and we can help you secure a maximum settlement.
Call 800-488-7840 or fill out the form below to schedule your free consultation with an Austin car accident attorney from Gibbs & Crivelli, Slingshot Law.
