.2002131234550.jpg)
Whether you were involved in a car accident or injured in a slip-and-fall accident in your local grocery store, one or more insurance companies are going to get involved. Unfortunately, representatives from these insurance companies have a knack for extracting information from unsuspecting victims that can later damage their injury claims. That’s why you should always consult with an attorney before you talk to an insurance company after an accident.
Make Your First Call after an Accident to a Trusted Injury Attorney
In a personal injury case, time is of the essence. Even if you don’t know whether you have a valid injury claim, it is in your best interest to protect your potential claim by consulting with a lawyer before talking to an insurance adjuster. In fact, you don’t even necessarily have to notify your own insurance company of the accident – if you hire a lawyer right away, they can do that for you.
If you do decide to inform your own insurance company about your claim, only provide basic information, like the time, date, and location of the accident. Don’t admit fault or assess your injuries – the lawyer you hire can discuss these details with the insurance adjuster on your behalf.
Seek Professional Support in the Aftermath of an Accident
After being involved in any type of accident, you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the chaos that ensues. The things you say and do immediately following an accident can significantly impact you and your claim later on. By retaining a lawyer, you can confidently move forward with personalized advice on what to do – and what not to do.
A personal injury lawyer can advise you on:
- Who you should and should not talk to at the scene of the accident
- How to collect substantial evidence of the accident that shows the other party’s fault
- How to self-advocate and respond to the other party or their insurance company
- How to seek and obtain proper medical care that will benefit your claim later on
Your Lawyer Will Be Your Greatest Advocate
Remember: Even your own insurance company is not on your side the way your attorney will be. Insurance companies will always put profits first. When you hire an attorney, they have a duty to defend your rights and represent you to the best of their ability. Insurance companies rarely offer the maximum settlement that an injury victim deserves.
By retaining a lawyer, you can make sure you:
- Don’t accept a lowball offer
- Uncover all available evidence to bolster your claim
- Are not forced to jump through unnecessary hoops
- Are not manipulated or affected by your lack of knowledge about your rights
Consult with Eliot Reiner, APLC
Have you recently been involved in an accident by no fault of your own? Are you suffering from an injury caused by someone else’s negligence? Eliot Reiner, APLC is here for you. Make our firm your first call in the aftermath of an accident.
Reach out to us today at (916) 778-3228.