The $230 Billion a Year Bill
Car accidents cost the US $230 billion a year. Different costs arise as a result of car accidents. From hospital bills to car replacements, the list is endless.
Medical bills can form a significant proportion of the costs associated with a car wreck. Some individuals find themselves paying for their bills years after a car wreck occurs. Loss of earnings as a result of time away from work is also a significant cost which many involved in car wrecks experience.
Complexities of Insurance and Car Replacements
Buying a used car to replace the wrecked car may be more cost-effective than a trip to the new car dealership. With used cars you do not need to worry about their depreciating value.
Car insurance may help protect you from significant financial losses that result from a car wreck. Even with premiums paid, not all costs are guaranteed to be covered. Deductibles (money owed before insurance takes full effect) may need to be paid.
Interestingly, the cost of a car wreck can be significantly increased, not just by the physical crash itself but also what is said at the scene of the accident. What is said at the scene of the accident can form part of the insurance claim. It is important to avoid admissions against interests. These are unsolicited statements made by a claimant which indicate that he was not harmed in the accident or that it was his fault.
You may be best served by avoiding admission statements. Letting the other driver do the talking while you write down their statements is a better option which can give you a leg up in your negotiations with the claims adjuster.
Being measured with your words even when speaking to a claims adjuster can go a long way in reducing the costs of a car wreck. For example, a simple question such as “how are you today” needn’t be responded to with “I am fine, thanks” if in reality you are not fine as a result of the car wreck.
With insurance claims, saying little can boost your chances of success. It is possible to be respectful without giving away too much information. In many cases, you do not have to record your conversation. You do not need to feel pressured to record information that could be used against you.
It is important to make sure that you are honest. Do not lie about the accident. Discussing pre-existing injuries can also be as detrimental as a lie which could sour your chances.
The Importance of a Lawyer
Benenati Law Firm helps its clients to evaluate losses of car accidents, using a sophisticated toolbox to gather evidence needed to provide clarity on damages and responsible parties in car accidents. It is determined to fight for the financial compensation that its clients deserve.
Deciding whether or not to hire an attorney after a car wreck is a decision. There is a lot of hassle involved which may seem like more effort than what it’s worth. However, there are key advantages of using a lawyer after a car wreck. A car wreck can cause damage in the long-term, long after a car wreck occurs. Such damage may not be felt at the time of the accident. Also, people who don’t have a lawyer after a car wreck usually get paid less by insurance companies than individuals with lawyers.
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