August 01, 2024
Many people don’t realize that most Indiana car accident claims don’t go to court. Instead, most car accident cases end in insurance settlements. However, it’s still important to know how car accident settlements work to protect your rights. Otherwise, you might not recover the compensation you need to pay your medical bills, cover your lost income, and rebuild your life.
The Valparaiso, IN, car accident attorneys at Custy Law Firm | Accident & Injury Lawyers have extensive experience with these cases and know the car accident settlement process inside out. We have assisted many people like you with seeking compensation for car accidents and helped them through the legal process. If you’re wondering, “How do car accident settlements work?” after a collision, we’ve got the answers you need.
Steps in Settling a Car Accident Claim
Knowing the steps to settle your car accident claim in Indiana can help you feel more in control and maximize your compensation. For your information, here’s a detailed look at each step in the process:
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after a car accident is get medical help. Even if you think your injuries are minor, seeing a doctor is vital to protecting your health. Your doctor can also provide medical records that will be important for your claim.
Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence from the accident scene can strengthen your claim. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, your injuries, and the accident scene. If possible, gather contact information from witnesses and the other driver. This evidence can help prove who caused the collision.
Report the Accident
Next, report the accident to the police and your insurance company. The police report will serve as an official record of the accident and your injuries, which can be crucial when negotiating your settlement amount. When you talk to your insurance company, stick to the basic facts of the accident and avoid saying anything that might imply you caused the crash. Never agree to give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first.
Consult a Lawyer
Talking to a personal injury lawyer can make the process easier. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, handle communication with the insurance companies, and guide you through the legal process.
Investigate the Accident
Once you’ve spoken to a lawyer, they will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. They may collect additional evidence, get witness statements, and consult with experts if necessary. This thorough investigation helps build a strong case for your claim.
Negotiate the Settlement
After finishing their investigation, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They will use the evidence they’ve gathered and your medical records to argue for fair compensation. Having a lawyer handle this step is crucial because the insurance companies will try to minimize your compensation to protect the company’s bottom line.
Accept or Reject the Settlement Offer
Once the insurance company makes a settlement offer, you and your lawyer will review it. If it’s fair, you can accept it. If not, you can reject it and continue negotiating or decide to take your case to court.
Receive Compensation
After you agree on a settlement, the insurance company will process your payment. This money will cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses from the accident.
What Losses Does a Car Accident Settlement Cover?
Your compensation in a car accident settlement depends on your injuries, the cost of your medical treatments, how much work you miss, and other factors. With help from a skilled legal team, your compensation could include money for:
- Your current medical expenses related to the collision
- The cost of any future medical treatments you might need
- Your lost income while you heal
- Your reduced future earnings because of your injuries
- Your pain and suffering
- Your emotional distress
- Your diminished quality of life
- Your damaged personal property (e.g., the cost to repair or replace your vehicle)
How to Secure a Fair Car Accident Settlement
The most important step to take to maximize your compensation in a car accident settlement is to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help evaluate your losses from the crash, gather evidence to support your claim, deal with the insurance companies for you, and prepare your case for trial if necessary. Without a lawyer’s help, you’ll need to handle these steps yourself, which can keep you from treating your injuries and addressing the other effects of the crash.
Contact Our Valparaiso, IN, Car Accident Attorneys Now
Custy Law Firm | Accident & Injury Lawyers has experienced attorneys who have helped many Indiana residents navigate the car accident settlement process and have achieved great results. We’ll handle all the legal work for you and fight on your behalf for maximum compensation while you focus on healing. Call (219) 286-7361 now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
