How do I obtain compensation for the injuries I suffered in a car accident? Do I have to go to court?

Typically, most car accident claims are settled with the insurance company, either before a trial, or even before a lawsuit is filed. That said, you should be aware that insurance companies are more interested in their bottom lines than they are in paying out large amounts of money on a car accident claim. Often what happens is that the insurance company tries to get you to settle your claim as quickly as possible, for an amount that may “sound” good, but would not take care of your medical bills if the injuries were serious and long-term. Do not be a victim of this tactic. Do not settle your claim until you are healed or until your doctor tells you that, while you’re not healed, you are as good as you are going to get.

Insurance companies also attempt to use anything you may have said to them against you, by twisting the meaning and making it sound like the injuries were not as bad as they sound, or you had pre-existing injuries, or because you did not seek medical care after the accident, that your injuries are not as bad as you say they are. They may argue any surgery being discussed is not necessary and/or not a benefit in the long run.

If you have been in a car accident, do not, repeat, do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company. Just direct them to your attorney, and also advise your lawyer that the insurance company contacted you. You are under no obligation to talk to the driver’s insurance or provide them with any information or documentation they request. Or course you do need to notify your insurance company of the accident, as often that is required according to the insurance coverage you have for your vehicle.

Do not make “any” admissions relating to the accident, such as “It may have been partially my fault,” or “I wasn’t paying attention to the traffic at the time,” or “The kids were acting up in the backseat.” Keep any observations like that to discuss them with “your” car accident lawyer.

Even though most car accident claims are settled one way or another, they are settled for more compensation when you have legal representation. Insurance companies do not want to go to court and risk a verdict that means they have to pay out more money on a claim.

When in doubt about your car accident, and what to do, where to go, or who to call for help, reach out to an experienced car accident attorney. They have your back. Let you know your legal rights, and stand by you until your case is settled fairly and equitably.

Other Car Accident FAQs: