Injuries sustained in auto accidents can be debilitating. Not only must you cope with your physical recovery, but you may feel overwhelmed by the unanticipated expenses like medical bills, lost wages, and prescription medication costs as well. Auto accident victims in California have the right to pursue compensation to assist with these expenses. While some people choose to move through the auto accident claims process on their own, it may be worth enlisting the help of an experienced Temecula attorney to help you navigate difficult conversations with insurance adjusters to ensure you obtain a fair and favorable settlement.
What Do Insurance Adjusters Do?
When you report the accident to your insurance company, an insurance adjuster will conduct an investigation into the incident and assess the damages. They look at several factors, such as police reports, witness statements, documents detailing your injuries, and other relevant paperwork, to inform the insurance company of the extent of the damage. From there, the insurance company will work with the adjuster to calculate your financial losses. The insurance company will then offer you a settlement.
Be Aware of Their Tactics
While the insurance adjuster may seem friendly and tell you they are there to determine the amount of compensation you deserve, it’s essential to recognize that their interests lie with the insurance company. Their role is to save the company as much money as possible, which means they may attempt to coax you into making statements that could undermine or discredit your claim. Additionally, while it may feel tempting to accept the first settlement offer the insurance company makes, this number almost always falls short of the full amount you’re owed. Working with a skilled Riverside County auto accident attorney is the best way to ensure you negotiate and obtain an equitable and favorable settlement.
Advocating For Your Best Interests
Although California does not require injured parties to work with an attorney to file an auto accident claim, doing so can increase your chances of maximizing your settlement. Your attorney can also step in to communicate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf, saving you a considerable amount of stress and anxiety. While your lawyer works hard to obtain the compensation you need to move forward, you can continue to focus on what matters most—your physical recovery.
If you need help pursuing compensation after an auto accident in Temecula or Murrieta, call Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation, today at (951) 489-3320.