The time after an auto accident can be chaotic and stressful, and many victims fail to consider all the questions they should ask as they navigate the claims process. Here, readers can learn several things to ask themselves before accepting an insurance company’s settlement offer.
Has an Attorney Been Hired?
In the field of personal injury law, it is the norm for attorneys to offer no-charge initial consultations. Personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means the lawyer receives a portion of the settlement amount if the claim is successful. Here, the risk and reward rest solely with the attorney, and the initial consultation is held so the lawyer can determine whether the potential reward is worth the risk.
Does it Seem Like the Victim’s Side of the Story Has Been Heard?
Next, the victim should ask themselves whether it seems as if the insurance adjuster has listened to their version of events. During talks with the adjuster, the client should discuss the effects of the accident on his or her daily life, and they should cover the financial, mental, physical, and emotional aspects of the event. If a person comes away from the conversation feeling more like a number than a victim, they should call an here as soon as possible. An attorney can listen to the case, evaluate damages, and help a client assess what is needed to restore losses.
Are All Accident-Related Medical Bills Paid?
Insurers look for ways to cut costs, and they seek to minimize payouts in any way possible. Commonly, insurers deny payment for medical treatments deemed excessive or unnecessary. They may tell a victim that a doctor overcharged for a treatment or that they will only cover part of the cost. However, this logic leaves the victim responsible for the rest of the bill when they should not be in this position, to begin with. Because accident-related medical bills are proximately caused by another person’s behaviors, that person, and their insurer, should bear the cost of a victim’s medical treatments.
Victims should consider a variety of possibilities when dealing with the aftermath of an accident or injury claim. It may be wise to accept a settlement offer, but clients should first get advice from an Injury Lawyer in Grand Rapids MI with any so they can make an informed decision.
