FREE CONSULTATION Car Accident Lawyer Franklin Park
After a car accident in Franklin Park, the aftermath can leave you feeling uncertain and stressed. At Porta Clark & Ward, we know how devastating these situations can be and are committed to helping you regain control. Our car accident lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected, from handling insurance claims to securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the complexities of the legal system add to your burden. Call us today at (412) 912-2381 for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice you need to move forward.
What You Should Avoid Saying to an Insurance Adjuster After a Crash
After a car accident, dealing with the insurance company can be one of the most stressful parts of the aftermath. Insurance adjusters are hired to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. What you say to them can significantly impact the outcome of your case, so it’s crucial to be cautious about your words.
“I’m Fine, I Don’t Need to See a Doctor”
One of the first things an insurance adjuster may ask is whether you’re okay. You might be tempted to downplay your injuries or avoid mentioning them, especially if you don’t feel severe pain immediately after the crash. However, saying that you’re “fine” can hurt your claim in the long run.
Even if you feel relatively okay, injuries from car accidents can take hours or even days to fully show up. Whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and concussions, for example, may not be immediately noticeable. By stating that you don’t need medical attention right away, you might inadvertently suggest that your injuries aren’t serious, which could lower the value of your claim.
Instead, it’s best to avoid making definitive statements about your health. If you’re not sure about the extent of your injuries, tell the adjuster you need time to assess the situation and that you plan to see a doctor as soon as possible. This will help ensure that your medical treatment is documented and can be included in your claim.
“It Was My Fault”
Even if you believe you may have been partially at fault for the accident, never admit guilt to the insurance adjuster. Insurance companies may use your statement against you, arguing that you are liable for the accident and reducing or denying your compensation. Even if you’re not sure about the specifics, avoid taking responsibility or assigning blame.
Fault can be a complex issue in car accidents. Police reports, witness testimony, traffic camera footage, and other evidence are needed to establish who is responsible. Until all the facts are clear, refrain from admitting fault. Stick to the facts and let your attorney help you determine liability.
“I Don’t Need an Attorney”
Many people believe they can handle the insurance claim process on their own, especially if they’ve suffered only minor injuries or property damage. However, even if you think your case is straightforward, it’s important not to tell the insurance adjuster that you don’t need legal representation. Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing payouts, and they may try to take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge.
Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. If the adjuster suggests that you don’t need an attorney, don’t take the bait. It’s always a good idea to consult with a lawyer before agreeing to anything.
“I’m Not Going to Pursue Legal Action”
It’s natural to want to resolve the situation quickly and move on with your life, especially if you’re dealing with an injury or damaged vehicle. However, stating that you’re not planning to pursue legal action can be used against you. Insurance adjusters may interpret this as an indication that you’re willing to accept a lower settlement or that you’re not serious about your claim.
Instead, focus on the facts and let the adjuster know that you’re still gathering information and reviewing your options. It’s important to avoid making final statements about your intent to pursue legal action until you’ve had time to fully assess the situation and consult with a personal injury attorney.
“I Think I’m Okay, but I’ll Let You Know If I’m Not”
After an accident, you may feel fine in the immediate aftermath but later discover that you’re dealing with significant injuries. Telling the adjuster that you’ll let them know if anything comes up can weaken your case. It implies that you’re not prioritizing your health or that you’re unsure of your injury’s severity, which can be used to undervalue your claim.
Instead, err on the side of caution. If you feel any discomfort, even minor, tell the adjuster that you intend to see a doctor and that your condition may evolve. You are entitled to compensation for any injuries, even those that appear later. Providing vague or uncertain statements about your health could jeopardize your claim.
“How Much Can You Offer Me Right Now?”
Insurance adjusters are trained to offer a low settlement, sometimes immediately after the accident. If you ask how much they’re willing to offer right away, you may end up accepting a much lower amount than your claim is worth. This can be particularly problematic if your injuries turn out to be more serious than initially thought.
It’s always a good idea to wait before discussing settlement amounts. Work with your attorney to calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical costs. Don’t be rushed into agreeing to a settlement before you fully understand the long-term impact of the accident on your life.
“I Don’t Need to File a Claim”
Sometimes, people mistakenly believe that if the accident was minor or the other driver’s insurance is covering the damages, there’s no need to file a formal claim. This can be a major mistake. Even in minor accidents, it’s essential to document everything and file a claim with your insurance company. Failing to do so could prevent you from receiving compensation for your injuries, especially if the other driver’s insurance refuses to cover the full cost of the damages.
Don’t assume that your insurance company will automatically take care of everything. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process and make sure you’re protecting your rights.
“I Don’t Need to Report the Accident to the Police”
Some people feel that calling the police after a car accident isn’t necessary, especially if the collision seems minor. However, not filing a police report can hurt your claim, as it serves as an important piece of evidence in determining fault and the severity of injuries. Insurance companies rely on police reports to settle claims, so it’s crucial to have an official record of the incident.
Always contact the police after an accident, even if the damage seems minimal. Having a police report ensures that your version of events is documented and can help you avoid disputes down the line.
Don’t Let a Car Accident Derail Your Life – Call Our Expert Lawyers Today
At Porta Clark & Ward, we believe that every car accident victim deserves an advocate on their side. If you’ve been injured, you don’t have to face the challenges alone. Our team of dedicated car accident lawyers is ready to guide you through the legal process and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Reach out today at (412) 912-2381 for a free consultation, and take the first step toward a brighter, more secure future. Let us help you get the justice you deserve.