Filing a prompt claim after a car accident is critical in ensuring proper compensation. However, clients should avoid certain mistakes that may damage a claim. Consulting an auto accident injury lawyer in Dayton OH can increase a client’s chances of having the claim approved, and it can prevent expensive mistakes.
Admitting Liability or Denying Fault
Those involved in an accident should say little until they’ve spoken to a personal injury lawyer. Drivers are required to report the accident right away, but insurers will use any possible excuse to minimize a payout. Victims should only report the basic facts of the accident, and they should tell the insurer that they plan to seek medical attention. Following that, the client should let the lawyer do the talking.
Accepting the First Offer
Clients are not obligated to accept the insurer’s settlement offer. In some instances, the payout may not be fair, and the victim may need a lawyer’s help in disputing the offer. After an accident, a person’s body is often in shock, and it can take several days for injuries to appear. It is important for a client to wait for a professional’s opinion on whether the insurance company’s offer is fair.
Signing Waivers
An insurance company may pressure a victim to sign a waiver. Here, the client accepts a check and waives his or her right to take the case to court, but many are unaware that they’re signing their rights away. Even with the help of a lawyer, it is difficult to litigate a case after signing a waiver.
Filling out a Claim Form Incorrectly
Filling forms improperly can result in claims delays or denial. It is important for clients to fill these forms as accurately as is possible, and to offer specifics of the accident. The insurer will match the information to the police report later on, and everything will be investigated. In most cases, clients should ask an attorney for help filling out claims forms.
Filing Late
Every insurer has a time limit for filing a claim. If the victim does not start the process right away, they could lose the right to receive PIP (personal injury protection) benefits. If a victim has pain after an accident, they should seek medical treatment and then visit website domain to speak to an Auto Accident Injury Lawyer in Dayton OH.