Can I Negotiate With an Insurance Company on My Own After an Accident?

After being injured in an accident in California, it may seem simple enough to recover the compensation you are entitled to. Many incorrectly assume that you simply need to file a claim with the other party’s insurance and wait for a check to come in the mail. In reality, however, you will soon discover that working with insurance companies can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming. In many instances, these corporations will take advantage of the fact that you do not have legal representation to reduce the value of your claim. As such, it is in your best interest to connect with our Irvine personal injury lawyers to assist you if you have been injured due to the negligence of another person. The following blog explores how we can assist you in the fight for the funds you deserve.

What Should I Do After an Accident in California?

When you are involved in an accident in California, whether you are struck by a negligent driver or slip and fall in your neighborhood supermarket, taking the necessary steps to protect yourself in these matters is critical. Generally, the first thing you should do following an accident is assess yourself for injuries. Even if you feel okay, seeking medical treatment is critical in these matters, as it shows that you established medical care immediately following the accident.

Next, you should report the accident to the appropriate authorities. If you are injured in an auto accident, you should call the emergency services to request a police presence to complete a report at the scene. However, a trip and fall at a mall should be reported to the store manager and/or property management company, as these entities can complete a report documenting the damages sustained.

After a report has been filed and you have obtained a copy, you should take photos and videos of the scene, including any property damage endured, any visible injuries you have sustained, and the hazard that resulted in the injury, if applicable. Taking pictures can help capture important evidence that can aid in your case.

Why Should I Avoid Negotiating With an Insurance Company on My Own?

After you have completed the necessary steps at the scene of the accident and obtained medical care, you can submit a claim to the negligent party’s insurer. Although you may think the insurance companies are on your side, it is imperative to understand that their main goal is to save as much money as possible. As such, you should understand that they will do everything in their power to reduce your compensation.

Unfortunately, many who try to negotiate with insurance companies will soon discover that they may not receive a favorable outcome in these matters. As such, you should enlist the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to fight on your behalf.

When you submit a claim to an insurance company without legal representation, the insurance company will likely offer you as little as possible in the hopes that you accept a minimized offer because you have limited legal knowledge and experience. Similarly, if you file a claim for non-economic damages, the insurer will likely dispute these matters. However, having an attorney can ensure you understand the compensation you are entitled to and help adequately value the emotional damages you have suffered.

If you have sustained an injury, enlisting the assistance of California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, to fight for the best possible outcome is imperative. Our team understands how difficult negotiating with insurers can be, and how tricky the adjusters are to work with, which is why we are committed to helping you. Contact us today to learn more.