Here are a few tips for auto accident injury victims. Initially, the liable party’s insurance company is not your friend. Therefore, it is recommended accident victims hire a Car Accident Attorney in Melrose MA.
What Comes First?
Injured persons should seek medical attention right away. Afterward, concentrate on other things like getting a copy of the accident report. The local police investigate, and they offer a copy of the report for a minimal price. Further, there are services that sell the reports online.
Hiring An Attorney
Hopefully, family and friends are able to recommend an attorney. Set up a free consultation right away. A Car Accident Attorney in Melrose MA does not charge for consultations. However, the client must sign a personal injury contract. Most attorneys charge 25 percent of the settlement amount plus costs.
Costs include charges for items like medical records. Generally, there is no charge if there is no recovery. If a lawsuit is filed, the attorney’s fee will likely increase.
Dealing With The Insurance Company
The liable party’s insurance company tries to contact victims right away. That is why having legal representation is key. The attorney may not want the client to speak with an adjuster unless they are present. Indeed, saying the wrong things can damage a claim.
Further, adjusters do not operate in good faith. They offer victims the lowest amount possible for a settlement. That is one reason why the attorney sends a letter of representation to the adjuster. The letter includes a request for the amount of insurance coverage.
Victims should always follow the attorney’s advice. Doing so will lead to the best outcome possible.
Damages
Injured persons should be made whole. Therefore, they are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the experience of the accident. In addition, the insurer must pay damages for permanent injuries. These damages may include the cost of future medical treatment.
The attorney sends the adjuster a settlement package when the client’s medical treatment is over. Negotiations begin and, hopefully, a settlement will be reached. If not, a lawsuit will be filed. It may take more than a year for the case to come to trial. For more information, contact the Law Offices of Burton J. Hass. You can also follow them on Twitter.