Chicago Car Accident Lawyer - Article
Five Things to do After a Car Accident
After getting into a car accident, it can often be difficult to know where to turn or what to do. An accident involving serious injuries only makes matters worse; not only do you have to deal with the pain and inconvenience of your injuries, but you have to worry about the toll that medical bill and lost wages will take on your finances. Ideally, this is the point at which your insurance policy – or that of the other driver – would kick in, providing you with the money you need to recover from the crash.
Unfortunately, as anyone who has ever had to make an insurance claim knows, the process is not nearly as simple as that. Obtaining a fair amount of compensation is difficult, if not impossible, if you do not take the proper steps following your car accident.
#1: Document the Accident
You will want detailed proof of exactly what happened and who was involved. This includes exchanging information with the other driver, taking photos of the scene, getting the contact details and statements of witnesses, and making notes of what you remember about the crash. All these can be used to support your case for significant compensation.
#2: Contact Your Insurer – But be Careful What You Say
Your insurer should know about the incident as quickly as possible. However, remember that insurance companies are primarily concerned with limiting payouts, even to clients who are entitled to them. To ensure that you don’t accidentally give the insurance company reason to deny or reduce your claim, only provide the adjuster with the simple facts about the incident. Be honest, but guarded; don’t discuss issues of liability or sign any waivers before consulting an attorney.
#3: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
For both health and insurance reasons, you should seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Although some injuries may not show up for some time afterwards, consulting a medical professional promptly increases your chances for a full recovery and supports your claim for compensation.
#4: Don’t Settle for Less
Insurance companies almost always attempt to “lowball” the amount of money they offer to injured policyholders. Regardless of what the adjuster tells you, this number is not ironclad. Don’t be intimidated; insurance companies will often be forced to sweeten the deal once they see that you are serious about pursuing your rightful compensation.
#5: Consult a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
Why get a lawyer? An experienced personal injury lawyer understands the workings of the legal system and insurance companies far better than you do. His knowledge and clout will force the other driver and insurance companies to take your claim seriously. The services of an attorney can also shield you from attempts to trip you up or get you to make statements which hurt your case.
If you have been hurt in a car crash in Chicago, call 312-466-8200 to speak with a Chicago car accident lawyer from Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C. today.