Being involved in a car accident can greatly impact your life. It can leave you with serious, life-altering injuries, impact your mental health and well-being, and even take a toll on your finances.
While this is true, as an accident victim, you have rights. Virginia uses the “fault” system, which means the person determined to be at fault for your accident must pay damages to those injured.
When you file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, the first settlement offer you receive will probably be much lower than you deserve. Insurance companies do this with the hopes you will accept it. After all, once you accept a settlement, you can’t ask for more money.
Maximizing your car accident claim
If you want the best chance of maximizing your settlement amount after a car accident, you should do a few things. For example:
- Contact the police after an accident
- Seek medical attention
- Take photos or other evidence at the scene
- Get information from other drivers and witnesses
- Don’t apologize or accept fault in any way
If you want to get a fair settlement offer from the insurance company, you must do your part. This includes keeping records of all expenses related to your accident and injury, getting medical care, and following through with the prescribed treatment plan.
What’s your car accident claim worth?
Every accident situation is unique. Because of this, there’s no way to give a general idea of what your car accident claim will be worth. While this is true, it’s important to consider all the important factors, such as damages, injuries, long-term medical costs, and more. This will help ensure you get a fair settlement that will help you recover.
