Liability, Insurance, And Your Car Accident

Getting into a car accident is scary, especially if it’s the first (and hopefully only) one. A motorcycle accident Lawyer wants to help take the fear out of the process by giving you five things you need to know:

1. What is liability?
2. Will the insurance company treat you fairly?
3. Whether or not you should provide a recorded statement
4. Information on whether you should settle with the insurance company
5. Whether or not you should hire an attorney to help you

What Is Liability?

An easy way to think of liability is to think of who (or what) is at fault for an accident. Most states operate under a comparative negligence standard. Basically, a party who is seeking compensation is entitled to compensation for the percentage of fault that can be assigned to any other negligent party or parties, offset by whatever amount of negligence that he or she has in the accident. The amount must add up to 100%. This determination is ultimately made by juries, but the rule applies to all phases of a case, in particular settlement values.

Consequently the strength of liability and the facts around your car accident will contribute to the valuation of any potential settlement from the insurance company as our friends at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC can share.

Will The Insurance Company Treat You Fairly?

Although all states require that drivers carry at least a minimum amount of insurance, the insurance industry is for-profit. It’s hard to believe that an insurance adjuster will treat you fairly when business is about profit. You will most likely get a low-ball offer that doesn’t cover all of your costs associated with the accident. You should work with an attorney who can speak on your behalf with your insurance in order to ensure that everything is done properly and above board for your best interest.

Should You Give A Recorded Statement?

The insurance company will want you to give them a recorded statement. Whatever you say will be documented. Before you agree to give your statement, talk with an attorney who is experienced with the type of claim you have. You don’t want to say anything that will totally destroy your potential claim to more compensation.

Should You Settle Your Car Accident Claim?

In truth, most accident claims settle instead of going to trial. By and large, this is great because claims get squared away faster than going to trial. Should you, though, settle your claim? That’s a question only you can answer. Before you sign a settlement, you might find it beneficial to consult with an attorney so that you can know if it’s a fair settlement or if you’re entitled to more.

The Insurance Company Has Their Attorney To Look Out For Them

Regardless of whether you settle or go to trial, the insurance company has an attorney to look out for what’s in their best interest. Their attorney cannot give you legal advice or tell you if you’re being treated fairly. Consider hiring an attorney to make sure that your potential legal rights are protected.