Dealing With Insurance Companies After a Crash

If you have recently been in an accident, you likely understand the headache of dealing with insurance. While it is understandable that you want to move on with your life, gathering pertinent documentation and evidence can allow you to recover the entirety of your damages. If the crash was caused by another driver, their insurance will be responsible for paying your damages. If you have any questions regarding the claims process, our Bennettsville car accident lawyers at Douglas Jennings Law Firm, LLC, are available to evaluate your case.

Dos

Report the Crash

Most insurance companies dictate how long you have to report an accident to recover benefits under your policy. Additionally, the state of South Carolina requires you to report any accidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or at least $1,000 in property damage to the police. The responding police officer will file a crash report, which will serve as supporting documentation when you submit your claim.

Seek Medical Attention

If you sustain any injuries, you should seek medical treatment immediately. If your injuries are severe, call 911. If you have suffered minor injuries, visit an urgent care center or walk-in clinic. Regardless, our legal team advises seeking medical treatment within 72 hours of your accident to preserve your right to file a claim.

Keep Follow-Up Appointments

Part of your treatment plan may include follow-up visits with physicians and specialists. Keep all these appointments since this will provide continuity of care. If you cancel or skip any appointments, this could cause a claims adjuster to question the severity of your injuries or suggest that gaps in treatment are responsible for lingering symptoms.

Don’ts

Don’t Provide a Recorded Statement

Following your crash, the claims adjuster may ask if they can record your phone conversation. In such an emotional state, you are more inclined to say something that you will later regret. Always politely decline any recorded statements since this will most likely hurt your claim.

Don’t Answer Questions About the Severity of Your Injuries

Although this may seem harmless, refrain from answering any questions about the severity and extent of your injuries. The insurance company is looking for any clues to downplay your injuries. Never speculate on a diagnosis or attempt to guess your recovery timeline. Instead, simply state that you are “currently undergoing treatment.”

Don’t Accept the First Settlement

The first settlement offer is rarely fair, and in most cases, it is only worth 40% of your accident case. That’s because the first settlement offer does not take future damages under advisement. Our legal team recommends not settling until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). MMI is the point at which you will no longer make meaningful medical improvement, as determined by your treating physician. Once you reach MMI, you will be better able to estimate your future medical expenses and future lost wages.

Three-Year Statute of Limitations

SC Code §15-3-530 only permits car accident victims three years to file their legal claim in court. The insurance company is aware of this timeline, so they will use whatever tactics they can to stall. At Douglas Jennings Law Firm, LLC, our Bennettsville car accident lawyers are not fazed by the insurance company’s usual tricks. Our team of legal professionals is prepared to handle claims paperwork and to negotiate with the claims adjuster on your behalf. Our mission is to help you obtain complete compensation for your injuries.

Bennettsville Car Accident Attorneys Advocating for You

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle crash, do not attempt to navigate the insurance claims process alone. Our Bennettsville car accident lawyers are skilled negotiators, never backing down until you obtain a fair settlement. To discuss your rights, contact Douglas Jennings Law Firm online or by calling (843) 479-2865 today. Offering free initial consultations.