A car accident can put a lot of stress on your body, both in the moment and afterward. One of the most stressful tasks after a car accident is dealing with insurance companies. It is no secret that insurance companies don’t want to give out copious amounts of money, if any at all.
Dealing with insurance companies as individuals can be a daunting process and one in which the insurance company may try and take advantage of you. In Las Cruces, New Mexico, attorney Clark Harmonson can be the go-between for you and the insurance companies involved, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
For your convenience, here are Clark Harmonson’s top 5 tips for dealing with insurance companies after a car accident. The first tip is gathering evidence. Gather as much information as possible at the scene because it can help with your claim. Doing so can increase your chances of proving fault and pursuing the total value of your claim. The more information, the more accurate you can be.
Here are some things to gather:
- Take pictures of the cars
- Make notes of other drivers’ insurance information, make and model of vehicles, time, and where the crash occurred
- Obtain contact information of witnesses (if any)
- Document every aspect of your accident
- Always call the police to investigate the crash
Tip two is making sure you keep detailed records throughout the process. For example, you’ll want to save the following documents:
- Medical records if you went to the doctor
- Receipts from the mechanic if you got your car looked at
- Any phone calls or texts you made
- The police report
- Any other documentation or evidence relating to the accident
Anything that can help you have a complete record of the event and the steps you took to mitigate your damage afterward will be helpful for proving fault and how much you’re owed in damages. Anything that you say to your insurance company can be used against you and your claim. Communicating clearly and effectively can help navigate this process so that your own words can’t be used against you to deny coverage, reduce the value of your claim, or prove your negligence.
Some things to never say to your insurance company:
- Do not admit fault.
- Do not make accusations.
- Do not make things up or guess.
Stick to the facts, and if there is anything you don’t know, it is better to not answer, or refer the insurance agent to your attorney.
If you are dealing with the other driver’s insurance company, never, under any circumstance, allow them to take your recorded statement. Insurance companies can be sneaky. Remember, above all else they don’t want to lose money, so be very wary of anything you are asked to sign. In many cases, such documents can limit or restrict your legal rights, or prevent you from being able to pursue the total value of your claim. Do not sign medical authorizations or releases before contacting an attorney.
Always have your attorney review any documents or settlement offers before you sign. The final tip is calling a New Mexico car accident attorney before you talk to your insurance company. Having an attorney who has years of experience working with insurance companies after car accidents can make sure you can accurately determine your case’s true value. An attorney can aggressively pursue all of the damages you have a right to based on the circumstances of your case. Harmonson Law Firm has years of experience representing those who have been involved in car accidents. They know all the tactics insurance companies will try and use. Helping you navigate it and making sure you get the compensation you deserve is our top priority. Contact (915) 233-6427 for a free consultation.
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