Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help with Claiming Insurance Benefits?
Being hurt in a car accident can be a scary and stressful experience. Not only might you be wondering how your medical bills will be paid — but you may be concerned about the lost wages you incurred while out of work recovering from your injuries. The majority of car accident cases are settled with the insurance company and do not need to go to trial. But dealing with the insurance company after a collision can be overwhelming and it’s essential to have a car accident lawyer who can help you claim the compensation you’re rightfully entitled.
If you find yourself asking the question, “can a lawyer help with my insurance claim?” after a car accident, here are several ways they can assist you:
A Car Accident Lawyer Can Communicate with the Insurance Adjuster
Following a car crash, you will likely start getting calls from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Critically, the insurance adjuster might try to get you to make a statement about the accident or your injuries — and what you say to them can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim. But once you are represented by counsel, the insurance company is no longer permitted to speak with you directly. A skilled personal injury lawyer will know how to communicate effectively with the insurance company and ensure your rights are safeguarded.
A Car Accident Lawyer Can Gather the Evidence You Need
Establishing that someone else was at fault for your car crash requires showing negligence. A personal injury lawyer will know what evidence is needed to demonstrate liability in your case and how to obtain it. In addition, they will also have a deep understanding of how to prove your damages and the medical documentation needed to maximize your compensation.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Advise You Regarding Your Rights
Most people are not aware of the rights they have after a car accident. If you do not fully understand your legal rights, you may end up settling with the insurance company for less than you deserve or forgoing compensation altogether. A car accident lawyer can explain the laws that are pertinent to your case and make sure your rights are adequately protected throughout settlement negotiations — or in the event litigation is required. They will also know the applicable statute of limitations and any other deadlines in your case.
A Car Accident Lawyer Can Develop a Strategy to Obtain Maximum Compensation
A car accident lawyer will assess the facts and circumstances of your case and have the skill to develop a strategy to maximize your monetary recovery. In addition, they will be aware of the tactics that insurance adjusters use to attempt to reduce your compensation. By knowing the defense strategies the other side will use, your attorney will know how to counter them effectively.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Will Know How to Value Your Claim
A good personal injury lawyer will know how to value a claim fully. While the insurance company might try to get you to settle early in your case for a lowball amount, the full value of your case may not be known until you have reached maximum medical improvement. Additionally, you may not only be entitled to economic damages for the medical expenses and lost wages the at-fault driver caused you to incur, but also for your future lost earnings and future medical bills.
A Car Accident Lawyer Knows How to Negotiate a Fair Settlement with the Insurance Company
It’s the insurance company’s job to pay out as little as possible on all claims. However, a car accident lawyer is specifically trained to negotiate with insurance companies. They will apply their knowledge and experience to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf — and push for the highest amount possible up to the policy limit.
A Car Accident Lawyer Can Litigate Your Case if Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to settle for the compensation you deserve, a personal injury lawyer can advise you as to whether it’s in your best interests to litigate your case. It may be necessary to file a personal injury lawsuit to show the insurance company that you are serious. A car accident lawyer will have a deep understanding of the legal process associated with litigation and can help you navigate it. They will also have the skills needed to bring your case to trial and represent your interests in the courtroom.
Contact an Experienced Washington Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help with your insurance claim and work to obtain the monetary recovery you deserve. With locations in Burien and Bellevue, Herron Law Office, PLLC provides reliable representation to car accident victims throughout the state of Washington and is dedicated to securing maximum compensation on their behalf. We welcome you to contact us for a consultation by calling (425) 600-2580.