An auto accident can be an overwhelming experience, and the economic recovery process doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. Insurer relations can be confusing to those who aren’t familiar with industry terminology or the value of their case. Many crashes in Wichita are handled by car accident lawyers who know how to deal with insurance companies and their in-house legal teams.
Tell the Responsible Party
Typically, the insurer is the responsible party, and the victim needs to determine the amount of available coverage. Underinsured and uninsured drivers are very common. In some areas, 20% or more of motorists don’t have liability insurance. It’s important to visit the website and obtain adequate insurance coverage to be protected against those who don’t have enough insurance coverage.
Investigation
During the investigative phase, certain facts need to be gathered. Documents such as police reports and traffic citations are useful, as are accident scene photos and contact information of witnesses. Medical bills, photos of injuries, and pay stubs to prove current income can all help victims build a case and prove their accident-related economic losses.
Negotiation
A victim may need to negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to gain compensation. At this point, it’s important for a victim to know the case’s value, and this is where a personal injury attorney can help. The negotiation process starts with the submission of a demand letter to the other driver’s insurance company. These letters usually state:
• why the other party is responsible,
• injuries and their effects,
• present and future medical expenses, as well as
• lost income and other damages, usually including a demand for a specific amount of money.
• Getting a Settlement
Insurance companies often try to settle cases for less than the requested amount. If a victim cannot get a fair settlement offer, their only option is to force the insurer into court. Victims injured in auto accidents should talk to a personal injury attorney to learn how to protect their legal rights. By having the necessary documentation and by hiring car accident lawyers in Wichita, a victim can prove their case and get the award to which they are entitled.
