After a car accident, one of the first things you probably think about is getting ahold of the insurance company. This will typically kickstart your path toward compensation so that you can move forward. By speaking with your insurance company, you should be able to receive reimbursement for aspects like medical bills, lost wages, and many other expenses. This is usually not the case. By speaking with a car accident attorney, you can ensure that you always say and do the right things after your accident so that you don’t jeopardize your rights or claims.

Things That Could Impact Your Insurance Claim

Explanations of Coverage: Many drivers do not take the time to read their entire auto insurance policy statement. It is not unusual that individuals do not understand what is written on their policy statements or what their limits represent. It may take an attorney sitting there explaining it to them. You should always receive a full explanation of your coverage so that you know what is and what is not covered.

Quick Settlements: Being seriously injured in a car accident can have a huge financial impact on your life as you attempt to get back on your feet. This means that you could be dealing with high medical bills on top of vehicle damage and time away from work. You don’t want to write yourself off and accept a low, quick settlement offer if you believe that you are entitled to more compensation than is being offered to you. You might have injuries that are permanent and require ongoing medical care. This is why it is important to think about the compensation you deserve as you move forward and do not automatically accept the minimal settlement amount offered by the at-fault’s insurance company.

Recorded Statements: The insurance adjuster will get ahold of you very soon after your accident and might tell you that they want to take a recorded statement. However, you should always decline to do this until you speak with your attorney as they will attempt to use your words against you. They might try to take your replies and twist them so that it helps them lessen the amount of compensation you receive.

Independent Doctors: The insurance company might insist that you see an independent doctor, but you don’t want to have a doctor treating you who might try to downplay your injuries to help the insurance company. Your attorney will be able to help you obtain the medical care you deserve and will be most beneficial in your recovery. 

Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurers will sometimes tell you that your injury was not caused by the car accident and might try to play it off as a pre-existing condition. If you did not have the injuries until you were involved in the car accident, you always want to mention this and prove that the injuries were actually caused by the accident.

Attorney Representation: Many individuals do not believe that they need an attorney to assist them after an accident. The insurance company would prefer that you not speak with an attorney because they want to downplay your injuries and attempt to get you the lowest amount possible. It is important that you speak with an attorney who has experience in these cases.

Having a Skilled Florida Attorney on Your Side 

Having an attorney on your side can offer you the protection you deserve so that an insurance company does not take advantage of you after an accident. Our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates have handled many car accident claims in Florida and are dedicated to assisting you in your time of need. You will find that you are eligible for many means of compensation when you need it most. Please contact our attorneys in Florida for more information at 904-647-2296.