Even if you pay your bill right on time every month, your insurance company may either deny your claim or offer you far less than your injuries are really worth. Insurance companies have entire departments that are devoted to keeping their money in house. It is important to know what information you will need and what actions you should take to make your insurance claim a successful one.
What to do at the Scene
When you are in an accident with injuries, call the police and wait at the scene for an officer to arrive. You should take pictures if you can and get the names of any witnesses that may be around. You will also want to request a copy of the police report.
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident at a business, you should get the manager’s name and fill out an incident report. You will also want to get the name of the company’s insurance provider.
Document Your Expenses
You will want to save every single medical bill that is related to your accident. If you have alternative treatments you will want to save those bills. If you have had to undergo psychiatric treatment due to your accident, be sure to save those bills as well. You should make copies of the receipts for any prescription or non-prescription drugs that you take that are related to your accident.
If you have missed time off work due to your injury, you should get the HR department of your company to write you a letter stating the amount of money you have lost due to your injuries. If you have had to hire someone to assist you with work around the house, you should make copies of those bills too.
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Calling Your Insurance Company
When you call your insurance company they will ask you many questions about your accident. If you don’t remember something, tell them so. Do not let them pressure you into answering. They may also ask to record you, but most attorneys will advise you not to let them.
Be sure to get all of your documentation to them as soon as possible. The insurance company will have 15 days to acknowledge your claim, 15 days to investigate it, and 15 days to accept or deny your claim. If they accept your claim, they will make you a settlement offer. You should always consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting their offer.
What to Look for in a Personal Injury Attorney
The lawyer you select should be well-versed in personal injury law. The firm should be staffed with legal professionals who are committed to proving your case. The lawyer should have an excellent reputation with the state bar and they should be able to provide you with references.
Having an accident is painful and it can be a hassle. However, if you collect evidence and hire the right attorney, you can get the money you need to move on with your life.
