According to the Centers for Disease Control, car accident deaths in Mississippi cost citizens $861 million in medical costs and lost work costs each year. Sadly, many of these crashes could have been prevented had drivers obeyed the rules of the road, avoided texting and driving, and taken proper precautions. When another driver is responsible for your accident, resulting in injuries, you may be entitled to receive money to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law are personal injury attorneys in Meridian, Mississippi who can fight insurance adjusters and negligent parties to help you get the recovery you may be entitled to receive under the law.
What You Should Know About Insurance Adjusters After a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident, one of the first steps you’ll take after seeking medical care, will be to contact your insurance to inform them that an accident has taken place. When speaking to insurance adjusters, it is important to understand that anything you say can impact your claim. In general, it is a good idea to deal with insurance adjusters in writing and avoid giving details over the phone. Dealing with insurance companies in writing has two advantages: (1) It allows you and your personal injury lawyer in Meridian, Mississippi to review the information you are providing so that it is clear and accurate and (2) it prevents misunderstandings. You may have to call your insurance to report the accident. When you do, make sure you get the name and contact information of the person to whom you are speaking. The adjuster may try to press you for details. It is entirely within your rights to tell your insurance adjuster that you do not want to speak about the accident at this time and prefer to be contacted in writing.
When should you hire a personal injury attorney like Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law in Meridian, Mississippi? Sometimes when individuals deal with insurance companies after an accident, the amount of money the insurance company offers for your settlement is much lower than your damages, medical expenses, and lost wages. If this is the case and you believe the offer is much lower than you should receive, you may want to speak to a car accident attorney in Meridian, Mississippi. Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law can review your insurance policy, help you understand your rights, and send your adjuster relevant facts to help them make a fair estimate of your damages. Sometimes the methods your adjuster may use to determine the value of your claim may differ from the methods your lawyer may use. For instance, adjusters may rely on formulas or computer programs to estimate the value of your claim. In some cases, the numbers crunched are averages and not actually a reflection of your real damages. Our firm can look at your case and help you fight to receive the maximum possible compensation permitted under the law.
Things to consider when dealing with adjusters. Your insurance adjuster may make you an initial offer and pressure you to settle. You do not have to settle immediately, and sometimes it is wise to have your offer reviewed by a competent car accident lawyer like Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law in Meridian, Mississippi. Here are some things to consider:
- Don’t give a statement to your adjuster without consulting an attorney. Your adjuster may ask you information about the accident. However, if you say the wrong thing, this could be construed as your accepting blame or be construed in the wrong way. It is best to wait until you have a clear understanding of the value of your claim and the facts of the accident before you settle your claim. A car accident attorney in Meridian, Mississippi may be able to write a demand letter to your insurer, stating the facts clearly, to help you get the best possible claim permitted under the law.
- Don’t report on your injuries without consulting an attorney. While it might seem reasonable for your adjuster to ask you about your injuries, it is important to understand the full nature of your injuries before you make any official statement. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injury or post traumatic stress disorder can take weeks or months before they become apparent. Better to seek proper medical care, get medical records, speak to experts, and understand your condition before making statements.
- Speak as little on the phone as possible until you consult with an attorney. Adjusters may try to settle quickly and may offer you a lower settlement to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. Ask to be contacted in writing and tell adjusters this is your preferred method of communication.
- Don’t permit the insurance company to record you without first consulting an attorney. In some cases, you will be informed that a call may be recorded.
There are many factors to consider when dealing with insurance companies after a car accident. In the case of a serious accident with major injuries, you may be entitled to a larger settlement under the law to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. A good portion of these expenses may be covered through insurance. A personal injury lawyer like Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law in Meridian, Mississippi can assist you as you navigate the legal and financial aspects of your car crash.
Have You Been in a Car Accident? Protect Yourself in Meridian, Mississippi
When families and victims hold those responsible for car accidents accountable, they send a strong message to society. Distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and breaking the law won’t be tolerated. Car accident injuries can be devastating for victims and their loved ones. You may be struggling with high medical bills, financial difficulties due to missed time at work, and may be experiencing immense pain and suffering. Ballard Law, PLLC: Attorney at Law in Meridian, Mississippi is a car accident lawyer who protects victims’ rights. Contact us today to learn more about how you can seek justice for your injuries.
