The Complexity of an Automobile Accident

Automobile accidents and their aftermath are becoming increasingly complex than they were a few years ago. Some of the common issues which arise and can have consequences are subrogation, overlapping insurance coverage, an uninsured motorist, an underinsured motorist, and comparative responsibility. Generally the laws which apply in auto collision cases are negligence, negligence per se, gross negligence, strict product liability, and relevant Workers' Compensation Law. Covering their Bases Insurance companies are known to pursue an accident aggressively to force a settlement with a victim. It is quite common for a representative to call an injured victim at his home to try to obtain a recorded statement of the extent and nature of the injuries sustained. Adjusters from some insurance companies are known to even visit the homes of an injured victim to record a statement and take photographs of the injury. This is actually pretty smart of them to do so. For one reason, many people exaggerate the physical injuries and the pain they have endured. A Basic Assessment The representatives from the insurance company will probably come unannounced so the victim does not have the time to prepare to act hurt or prepare a scripted story. If they show up and the victim is shooting some hoops in the driveway, they know the extent of the injuries cannot be that extensive. If they show up and the victim is running around with their dog and wrestling him in the front or back yard, they know his neck or back injury claims may not be that debilitating. On the flip side, if they show up unannounced and the victim cannot even answer the door and is lying in bed either asleep or awake but in visible discomfort, they know this victim is actually a victim and will be asking for a decent size settlement. And deservedly so! Matching Wits Verse Wits Insurance representatives may make a small offer in terms of a settlement to try to close the case. This is done with the intention of gaining an advantage and trying to force closure before a victim has a chance to consult an accident attorney. The majority of victims in accident cases are ignorant in terms of knowing their rights and can easily be persuaded to settle for a fraction of what their case is actually worth. But if a victim is represented by an injury attorney the adjuster never tries this ruse because he is aware that the attorney knows the victim's rights and what the extent of injury is worth. Coming Out on Top within Reason If you or a member of your family is injured in an automobile accident then consult an accident attorney to ensure that you attain a fair settlement. You might be entitled to compensation well beyond just your medical bills, loss of earnings, and damage to property. Your attorney will do his best to optimize the claim but remember, asking for money you do not deserve is not professional or morale. You do not want to financially harm this company or they will be forced to lay people off. Some of these rainmaking cases make headline news but they impact jobs and force companies to expand overseas rather than on American soil. Despite this, you should certainly be compensated for the reasons cited above and some punitive damages as well, if warranted.

www.kellumlawfirm.com

www.kellumlawfirm.com