After being involved in a car accident, you have to file an insurance claim. Why? It’s how you recover the financial damages you’re owed, which allows you to get your life back on track after an accident. However, you’re not exactly sure what the process entails or how to obtain compensation.
This article discusses the most common questions about car accident insurance claims. Our answers should provide enough information for you to know exactly what to do moving forward.
How Soon Does a Car Accident Insurance Claim Need to Be Made?
Many San Diego car accident attorneys will recommend that you file a claim as soon as possible. Keep in mind that once an accident happens, you have to notify your insurance provider about it right away. Getting through the process as quickly as possible ultimately makes it easier to recover any damages incurred. Remember, you’re working against the clock when it comes to car accident claims which is why it’s critical to work with a personal injury attorney in San Diego.
How Do You Determine the Value of Your Claim?
The truth is that each case is different, and multiple factors will affect how much compensation you receive. There are several different types of damages you should consider, which include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Auto repair bills
- Damage to personal property
- Loss of wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Permanent disability
- Emotional distress and suffering
Hiring a lawyer will make it much easier to calculate the actual value of your claim. Once they figure out what it’s worth, they can negotiate a settlement that covers all the accident damages on your behalf.
How Do You Deal With the Insurance Companies?
It is no surprise when insurance companies want to minimize their liability by not covering all the damages you’re owed. Make sure that you’re wary when dealing with an insurance adjuster – they’ll try to exploit any available loophole. It’s advised that you have an attorney handle any settlement negotiations. You also shouldn’t accept the first offer you receive.
What Happens if You’re Partially Responsible?
Even if you contributed to the accident, you’re still eligible to recover compensation. Keep in mind that California state law follows comparative negligence, which means that all parties involved are partially at fault. For example, the courts could determine that you’re 20% responsible for causing an accident. In other words, you can still receive compensation.
Do You Need to Hire An Attorney?
The short answer is yes – an attorney can guide you through the entire claims process. There’s also no downside to hiring an attorney. They have enough knowledge and experience to ensure you get the most out of your claim. It’s one of the best decisions you can make to protect your rights and defend yourself against insurance companies.
Are you still unsure about what to do? Contact the offices of HHJ Trial Attorneys in San Diego for assistance. We have many clients in the process of filing car accident insurance claims. Our team of experts can represent your case and do whatever it takes to recover the full compensation you deserve.
