Being involved in a vehicle accident can be an overwhelming experience, especially in its aftermath. As you try to recover from your injuries and cover the expenses for damages to your property, seeking compensation may be difficult.
If you find yourself in this situation and have questions like, "How does a car accident settlement work?", keep reading. This blog will overview the process to help you navigate this challenging time.
1. Filing a Claim
Your lawyer will assess the damages, gather evidence, and file a claim with the at-fault driver and their insurance company. This is to seek compensation for the harm you suffered from the accident. Your claim will typically include information like the circumstances of the accident, your injuries, and costs associated with any medical treatment or property damage.
2. Investigation
After the car accident claim is filed, the at-fault driver's insurance company will conduct an investigation. They do this to determine the extent of liability and the compensation that should be paid to the claimant. This may involve visiting the accident scene, reviewing police reports, and interviewing witnesses.
However, be cautious with insurance company investigations, as they may go beyond reasonable limits. These companies seek to minimize payouts and may disregard your rights. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a car accident lawyer before making statements or signing anything.
3. Claim Approval or Denial
Once the insurer concludes their investigation, they will either accept or reject coverage for your claim. When they approve it, it means they agree that the policy covers the at-fault driver's conduct. However, this doesn't guarantee fair compensation for your injuries.
If your claim is denied, the insurer is likely stating that the policy or your claim does not cover the conduct or outcome is rejected for technical reasons. In either case, the insurer should provide a written explanation for the denial.
4. Settlement Negotiation
If your insurance claim is accepted, both parties will enter into a settlement agreement that bars any future legal action regarding the case. You will receive a settlement offer at this stage, which is often low initially. However, you are not obligated to accept it, and you have the right to reject the offer and request a higher amount based on your injuries and expenses.
Seek an Experienced Attorney!
If you have further questions on how to pursue a personal injury settlement, contact the Law Offices of Jeff Martin's car accident attorneys in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We will be happy to assist you in understanding the process of filing a car accident claim and the factors that can affect the compensation you may receive. Visit our law firm in Tulsa, Oklahoma now.
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