Personal Injury - Car Accidents and Insurance

Dealing with the fallout from a car accident can be a frustrating and confusing process. To make the situation worse, you also have to deal with the at fault party's insurance company. Make no mistake, when you are involved in a car accident, the at fault party's insurance company is not there to make sure you are properly compensated for your injuries. Every insurance company has a claims department whose goal is to dispose of your claim for as little money as possible. You have a lot on the line: your health, lost income from missed work and much more. It is important to be properly represented.

Doesn't the Insurance Company of the At Fault Party Have to Pay for My Injuries?

Yes. It is the amount that the insurance company is willing to pay that will be the contested issue. Initially, most insurance companies will not offer to pay you the fair value of what your claim is worth, taking into account the injuries to your person and property. 

The insurance company of the at fault party will almost invariably present you with a "low-ball" offer and attempt to downplay and devalue the severity of your injuries and what your claim is worth. This tactic is implemented by the insurance company to see if it can minimize whatever liability it has as a result of your claim. Insurance companies can go from an initial offer of $500.00 to tens of thousands of dollars on the same claim, depending on whether the injured party is represented or has adequately presented his or her claim. With such large disparities in settlement offers, it is important to make sure that you are receiving the best offer possible and are not being forced to accept an unfair settlement offer from an unscrupulous insurance company.

Hiring an attorney can ensure that the insurance company does not take advantage of you; it ensures that you are paid the entirety of what you are owed as a result of the injuries you have suffered. Having your claim properly presented could be the difference between a $500.00 settlement and thousands more.

How Much Will This Cost?

Aside from the pain and inconvenience caused by the accident, the next big issue is the cost of having an attorney represent you. Representation is offered on a "contingency fee" basis. What this means is that you pay nothing if your claim does not result in a judgment or settlement.

Contact

If you have been injured in a car accident or have any questions, feel free to use the form on this page or call 330-623-7LAW for a free consultation.