How Do I Deal With Insurance Companies After an Injury Accident?
As prevalent as auto accidents are on the roads in Jacksonville, Florida, many people who have been injured in an accident do not fully understand the process that immediately follows such a serious accident. One question injury victims often have is how to deal with insurance companies after an accident that results in injuries or a death to a loved one.
One thing is certain: after you have been injured in an accident, both the insurance company for the other driver who caused the accident and your insurance company are ready to start the process of saving as much money for themselves as possible. As a result, it is important that you know what to do to make sure you are fully compensated for your injuries, medical expenses and time lost at work. After an accident, you are required under your insurance policy to notify your insurance company of the accident. This should be done as soon as possible. A representative from the other driver's insurance company and one from your insurance company may try and contact you and ask you detailed questions about how the accident occurred and your injuries. Usually, the days and weeks after a serious accident are not a good time to respond to such questions. You do not have to speak to the representative for the other driver's insurance company. You do have a duty to cooperate with your own insurance company and give a statement. However, you have a right to give that statement on your own terms with your personal injury lawyer present. Therefore, the best practice is to notify your personal injury lawyer before speaking with anyone who contacts you about your accident or your injuries.
After your injury accident, it is important that you receive the necessary medical treatment. Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment are important to establish your claim for damages. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance offers immediate medical coverage for the treatment you need after the accident. You, or your personal injury attorney, can contact your insurance company to obtain your PIP benefits and make sure your initial medical bills are covered.
As you go to the hospital and/or your follow up doctor, you will want to make sure the appropriate evidence is being gathered to establish your claim for personal injury damages with the other driver's insurance company and your insurance company. A personal injury attorney can help you with this process by collecting the appropriate documentation and information so you can concentrate on the recovery process. Once the appropriate information is obtained, that information is organized in a demand package to be sent to the insurance company(ies) so the negotiation to obtain the compensation you deserve can begin.
If you have any questions about how to deal with an insurance company after an accident of any kind in Florida or Georgia, feel free to contact us any time.
