.png)
Setting a car accident claim is the ideal outcome for many crash victims. The thought of fighting it out in court with a St Louis car accident lawyer to risk walking away with nothing is too much to bear for many people, especially those who have suffered the trauma of a car accident.
Unfortunately, settling does not always go in favor of the victim, due to insurance companies fighting for their bottom line rather than justice. That said, what is the best way to reach a successful settlement after a car accident?
This brief guide explains the essential requirements in any car accident case to ensure a fair and successful settlement without going to court.
How to Settle a Car Accident Claim Successfully
Insurance companies want to pay out as little as they can, which is why the case built against the defendant is vitally important. Equally important is the mindset of a victim during the negotiations, as it is easy to become overwhelmed and end up accepting less than it is worth.
Here is a closer look at the three stages of a car accident settlement and how to navigate them successfully.
Recording the Details
At the time of the accident, document as much information as possible. Record the license plate, insurance details, and contact information of the other driver. The more details taken about the incident, the better. In the event that a victim is unable to record information at the scene, police officers can take the necessary notes, and a family member should follow up as soon as possible.
Additionally, all expenses resulting from the car accident, including medical bills, repair costs, lost wages, and more should be documented in detail with all the necessary paperwork to back it up.
Reporting the Case
Filing the claim with the other driver's insurance company and informing their own is the next step towards settlement. The best way to settle a claim successfully is to report the claim to all involved parties as soon as possible.
After a case is filed, the claimant should be sure to look out for any communications via mail or email afterward. Stay actively alert and involved to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Once the case is filed and accepted, be prepared for the back and forth to follow and get ready to stand your ground.
Negotiating a Deal
The most difficult but important part of a car accident claim is the negotiations. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible and often use tactics to push victims to accept a low-ball offer. To reach a successful settlement, it is essential to remember the worth of the incident and not settle for less than the expanses suffered.
During negotiations, the best way to reach a successful settlement is to keep a level head and avoid letting emotions get in the way. Post-accident can be a tiring and traumatic time, and the longing for it to be over can lead people to accept settlements too early and too low. Remaining resolute in the endeavor to be made whole is the best way to get what is deserved.
Having an experienced legal professional with expertise and a deep understanding of how car accident claims work is hugely beneficial to anyone during the negotiation process. In times as turbulent as the aftermath of a car accident, the last thing a victim needs is the hassle of negotiating and fighting for fair compensation when they should be focusing on physical and emotional healing.
Summary
In short, whatever type of claim you are making in the aftermath of a car accident, there are three key things you should do to give yourself the best chance of settling the claim successfully:
Make detailed notes of everything- information is power in any claim. Remain calm, level-headed, and unemotional- don't let the stress of the situation force you into accepting less than you deserve.
Hire a car accident attorney to help navigate the waters and advise on when to settle.
If a person wants to successfully settle a car accident claim before it goes to court, they contact the Powell Law Firm for a consultation with an exceptional legal mind who is ready to fight on their behalf and get them what they are entitled to.
Comments