In the aftermath of a collision, your immediate priority should be focusing on your physical recovery. However, the consequences can extend beyond the injuries. Financial burdens related to car accidents can persist long after the injuries have begun to heal.
Unfortunately, figuring out the best way to recover compensation from an at-fault driver can be extremely challenging. Both insurance processes and the legal system can be complicated and difficult to navigate on your own. With the help and guidance of a Car Crash Injury Lawyer, you will be in a much better position to recover damages and get the financial compensation you deserve. Here are just a few steps you might need to take following a collision.
Gathering Evidence After a Car Crash
Perhaps you are certain that another driver is at fault for the crash. Insurance companies and courts are not going to just take your word for it – you will need evidence to back up your claim. The evidence might include images from the crash scene, witness statements, video footage, and more.
In addition to recovering evidence of what happened, you will also need evidence to support your injury claims. If you suffered a broken arm, you will likely have pretty clear medical evidence to show that this injury happened because of the car crash. However, there are many injuries that aren’t as obvious, but still cause significant pain and require medical care and attention. You will need to have solid documentation of all treatments, diagnoses, and other medical care that you needed because of the accident.
Your attorney can help you determine what you need to collect to make your case.
Negotiations and Dealing with Insurance Companies
One step you need to take is to issue a demand letter to the responsible driver’s insurer. The letter states important information, including what happened, why the accident was the other driver’s fault, the extent of the injuries and property damages you suffered, and how much you are requesting compensation. Typically, your attorney will write this letter and state a deadline for the company to reply.
Sometimes, the insurance company will make an offer, but it will often be far below the actual needs of the person who sustained injuries in the crash. If you find yourself in this position, your lawyer will often choose to take your claim to court to pursue a greater amount of compensation.
Lawsuit and Settlement Negotiations
A car crash injury lawyer can file a claim in court requesting damages from the at-fault driver. The compensation may include economic damages like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. Also, the total will likely include pain and suffering and in some less common cases, punitive damages.
Just because you start the legal process does not mean that your case will go to trial. There will be opportunities throughout the case to settle. Your attorney will engage in negotiations if the other party is open to such discussions.
Throughout the lawsuit, your attorney will also file important documents requesting information from the other side, may carry out depositions on witnesses and other relevant parties, and will appear in court at scheduled hearings about the case. If your lawyer believes it is necessary, they will eventually take your case to trial. The process can take years, but it’s important to start it in a timely manner.
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations will prevent you from filing a lawsuit after two years from the date of the accident.
Reaching Out to an Attorney
After a car accident, your lawyer serves as your advocate and your guide through the legal system. With a legal expert in your corner, you are in a better position to reach a favorable settlement or otherwise succeed in recovering the compensation you deserve. Connect with The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin today to get more information about your particular claim.
