How is Car Insurance Affected by Crashes?

Dealing with the aftermath of a car crash is daunting. Whether it’s coping with long-term physical injuries or dealing with financial difficulties, victims are forced into difficult situations in order to pick up the pieces following an injurious car accident. Negotiating with insurance companies and coping with your car insurance changes can arguably be the most difficult part in the aftermath of an accident

Some insurance companies may fight an injury claim after your collision, despite the fact that injuries can still occur in minor car accidents. Car insurance companies are also known to raise insureds’ rates after a crash, even if the crash wasn’t the victims’ fault. That’s why it’s important to know how to negotiate with insurers in the aftermath of a crash.

If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident in Arizona and want to file a claim, contact the Phoenix car accident lawyers at ELG. Our team of auto accident lawyers is here to help you safeguard your legal rights and negotiate with insurance companies after an accident.

Report the Facts of Your Accident

Stick to the facts after an accident. Note the extent of any injuries, including any long-term or physical effects. Document the damage to your car as well. And take note of any other financial impact after a crash, including medical receipts, any physical therapy, and lost wages.

Furthermore, it’s important to highlight the negative emotional impact of your crash. This may include the crash’s impact on your personal relationships or your ability to care for loved ones, like your children or spouse. Though it’s nearly impossible to place value on emotional suffering, taking note of these factors will contribute to a favorable settlement.

Car Insurance Process After a Car Crash

In Arizona, the statute of limitations that affects car accident lawsuits is the same as the larger one that applies to all personal injury cases. Specifically, Arizona Revised Statutes section 12-542 sets a two-year deadline for the filing of any civil case seeking a remedy for injuries done, trespass for injury done to the estate or the property of another, and for injuries done to the person of another when death ensues from such injuries.

It’s hard, but it’s important to remain patient during the settlement process. You or your attorney will begin the process by sending a demand letter, which will include your desired settlement amount. Keep in mind that it can take multiple conversations with insurance adjusters to come to an agreement after your crash.

This process could take months. And though it may be tempting to take the first offer made by the insurance company, you should avoid accepting this initial offer. An adjuster may try to convince you that an attorney won’t litigate smaller car accident cases due to their lower valuation and the expense to file. In other words, an insurance adjuster will often try to make a lower offer to settle your case. No matter the offer, you should consult your attorney to review the terms.

Before you speak with an insurance company, decide on a minimum settlement figure that you will accept. Tell your lawyer your desired figure, but remember that this is for your own use. Don’t use this information as an initial demand figure, and don’t reveal the figure to the adjuster.

Make sure all settlement offers and counteroffers are in writing. Once an agreement is reached, ensure the settlement offer is also in writing. The settlement offer, written by either you, your attorney, or the insurance company, should state the settlement amount, the damages covered, and the date that the payment will be made.

Car Accident Lawyer in Phoenix

The best way to ensure your accident claim is successful is to consult your attorney after an accident. Your lawyer will help you organize the facts of your case and act as a liaison to insurance companies. Collaborating with your attorney on these issues will help make your recovery process smooth and stress-free after an accident.

Contact our Phoenix injury lawyers at ELG today at (623) 877-3600 for a free, no-hassle consultation.