Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can be one of the most painful and stressful times in your life. Not only can you and any passengers in your vehicle be seriously injured, or worse, but you can suffer the loss of your vehicle which is often worth more than a year’s wages!
The best piece of advice you can be given after a motor vehicle accident is to do nothing once you’ve reported it to the police. Don’t talk to anyone except, of course, your insurance company and any doctors or hospitals you’ve been transported to. Here are some reasons why.
Insurance Companies Are in the Business of Making Money
You might be wondering why you would need an attorney if you have great coverage with your insurance company. Whether you live in a no-fault state or an at-fault state like North Carolina, the thing you should understand right from the very beginning is that insurance companies are in the business of making money.
Yes, they cover you up to your policy limits but they rarely like to pay up to those limits! With the right motor vehicle accident lawyer with a winning record, you can get the maximum compensation you deserve for injuries, property damage, and even pain and suffering now and that which you will be suffering in the future.
How You Can Be Tripped Up by Adjusters
Another point to remember is that adjusters work for those insurance companies. They are well practiced in the art of getting you to say more than you should and some even twist your words. It is not uncommon to be tripped up by insurance adjusters who obviously want to settle for the smallest amount possible. After you’ve made that initial report to your own insurance company, don’t speak with the other driver’s carrier.
Refer them to the lawyer you’ve retained to represent you. This is what that attorney specializes in and it is their job to say only what needs to be said, by law, protecting you and your interests. They have a fiduciary interest in you, meaning they are responsible to no one but you and of course the State Bar and the governing laws of their state.
Referrals to Qualified Professionals
A highly experienced motor vehicle attorney also has a list of good doctors and other professionals you may need to contact. These are professionals who specialize in dealing with injuries and the resulting life-changing consequences of being involved in an accident. Besides knowing specialists in your area, attorneys can also help you understand other coverages you may not be aware of such as car rentals and support services covered by your policy.
A Quick Summary of Steps to Take
While you might believe that the law is on your side, this is only true if you can prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are on the right side of it! Saying the wrong thing to the wrong person can quickly limit the amount of compensation you receive. Why settle for less than the just compensation you deserve?
After a car accident, make sure to call 911 first if there are any injuries; they will also alert the police to be on the scene. Once injuries are dealt with, notify your insurance company and say as little as possible. Then, hire a lawyer. After that, everything is in the hands of your legal team so let them do the worrying for you and get what you rightfully deserve!
