The instant you are struck by another vehicle, your first thought is likely, “Am I okay?” followed by, “Is my car okay?” After assessing the immediate situation, most people’s thoughts then turn to worry and concern: How much of the damage will be covered? How will I pay my bills? When will I make a full recovery?
Motor vehicle accidents present us with a situation we aren’t always prepared to handle, especially not on our own. But putting your complete trust in an insurance company may not be the best course of action, especially if you haven’t considered your own best interests.
What things should you consider after a crash?
The biggest concern a lot of people have after an accident is how they will pay for the expenses associated with the crash. While it’s important to consider obvious expenses – such as vehicle repairs and medical expenses – you should also consider the expenses that may not be immediately apparent, such as diminished value on your vehicle and any long-term care you may need. These costs can add up just as quickly and create just as many problems as their more obvious counterparts.
The next thing you should consider is whether the accident will force you out of work or not. Even a temporary absence from work can mean weeks or months without pay, which is another cost to consider. If your injuries are more severe or leave you disabled, you could be out of work for even longer or permanently, which can create an entirely new set of problems.
Other things to consider are whether or not you understand your policy, how you plan on fighting for the maximum compensation under your policy, whether you have a third-party claim, if you need to take civil action and how you plan on handling matters if negligence was a factor in your crash.
Retaining professional services
Even though you’ve probably never considered all of your best interests before, an experienced injury attorney has. With their help, you can better understand your rights and get help navigating the oftentimes complex process of filing an insurance claim after a crash.