The process of getting the money you deserve from your insurance companies can be a lengthy and frustrating one. The aftermath of any accident is stressful for everyone involved. Having to deal with third parties, such as insurance companies, further complicates matters.
If injured, you should seek the help of one of our Henderson personal injury lawyers who will advocate on your behalf to make the process of obtaining compensation as seamless as possible.
Listed below are detailed steps in filing a personal injury insurance claim and what to expect:
Determine the Type of Insurance Claim
Identifying the type of claim you wish to file should be your first priority. At Dempsey, Roberts & Smith, we deal with different types of claims related to personal injuries. They are as follows:
- Car Accident Injuries
- Truck Accident Injuries
- Motorcycle Injuries
- Slip and Fall Injuries
- Defective Product Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Medical Malpractice Injuries
- Electrocution, Fire and Burn Injuries
- Wrongful Death
Now that you have determined the type of claim you have, it is time to file it.
When Can You File a Claim?
In any claim involving insurance, you should notify your own insurer immediately. This falls under your duty to cooperate. If you were injured by a third party, you can open a claim with their insurance company, but be aware they make seek a recorded statement, and it may be wiser to retain an attorney for your injury claim, before giving any statements.
While filing a claim, there are a few things you should do and not do.
Initially, you should contact your own insurer as previously mentioned. Your own insurer has a duty under your insurance policy to treat you fairly. It’s a different story with the other insurer, and that’s why it’s not a bad idea to talk to a lawyer beforehand.
Consulting an attorney at an early stage can help preserve evidence, make you aware of the law surrounding your claim, and give you an idea of the viability of your case. Adjusters commonly ask how the accident happened and what medical treatment you received. Many will ask about prior injuries and previous accidents. Sometimes, they are fishing for other causes for the injuries you are claiming. Many adjusters are fair and reasonable, but be cautious in giving out any information that isn’t relevant to the accident you were in.
In order to achieve the best compensation for our clients, our team will communicate and negotiate with insurance companies.
It is imperative that you file an insurance claim as soon as possible if anyone was injured or you aren’t sure who is at fault. The deadline for filing a claim may vary from one to ten years, depending on the type of claim. A general rule of thumb is to submit your claim as soon as possible. Waiting may result in your insurer investigating, and possibly denying it.
Our Lawyers Can Help
The sooner you consult with an experienced insurance claims attorney, the better. Adjusters and corporate lawyers are working around the clock to undermine your claim. Your insurance company will do anything to save money, so it is always best to air on the side of caution. Call Dempsey, Roberts & Smith at 702-388-1216 for a free, confidential case evaluation.