Four Ways To Protect Your Rights When Dealing With Insurers After A Car Accident In Bradenton
When a car accident in Bradenton happens, one of the first things you are expected to do in the immediate aftermath is to notify your insurer. Insurance policies you or other drivers involved have in place can help to offset some of the costs of a collision, but dealing with insurance companies often proves challenging. Unfortunately, it is common practice for them to either deny or dispute your claim. To protect yourself and your rights in any settlements, it is important to follow some simple tips when dealing with these companies. These include:
- Report your car accident, exchange information with other drivers, and get medical attention for your injuries.
The first step in protecting your rights when dealing with insurers in the aftermath of a car accident is to follow the correct steps at the scene. The Florida Statutes require you to notify the police immediately when a car accident results in injuries or property damages and to remain on the scene, exchanging information with other drivers involved. You should also get medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible, regardless of severity. Not following these steps could jeopardize your rights in a claim.
- Talk to an experienced car accident attorney before making any statements.
Once you report your car accident to the insurer, they will ask you to make a recorded statement. Before agreeing to this or offering any other information about the crash, speak to our Bradenton car accident attorney first. Insurers often use information you provide to dispute the crash, how it happened, and the severity of your injuries.
- Beware of immediate settlements.
In the aftermath of a car accident, it is not uncommon for insurers to offer an immediate settlement. They know you are shaken from the crash and eager to resolve the matter and put it behind you. However, it often takes long weeks or months to fully uncover the nature of your injuries, the amount of medical care you will require, and the impact they will have on your life. Accepting an immediate settlement could leave you paying out of pocket for a significant amount of costs.
- Know Your Options.
When negotiating with insurers, it is important to be aware of other options you have. In cases where the other driver is at fault, you have the right to file a lawsuit against them through the Manatee County Civil Court. This often entitles you to additional types of compensation not available in an insurance claim.
Let Us Help You Today
You have only one chance to get the compensation you need to recover when a car accident happens. Get the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely on your side. We negotiate with insurers to get you the maximum amount in any settlements and can represent you in a lawsuit if needed. Call or contact our Bradenton car accident attorney online and request a consultation today.
