Do's and Don'ts Of An Automobile Claim With Injuries
It only takes a moment for your whole life to be turned upside down. That is what happens when you get on the road expecting an average day, and then you end up in an automobile accident. You may think you are fine and have no injuries but a couple of days later, you can't move, your back, hips or knees are not what they should be. You go to see a doctor who informs that you will need to go through physical therapy. What do you do now?
What Not to Do After An Automobile Accident
When you are being treated for injuries after an automobile accident, you don't want to sign any release forms or settlement papers until your treatment is complete and your property damage is settled. These forms can release the insurance company from any liability.
Make sure that you don't miss any of your appointments, doctors who specialize in auto accidents are trained to keep good records that will be used when your case is settled and to help you get the most you can get from the accident.
You aren't sure how you will pay for the treatments? In some cases, the doctor you see will treat you and wait for the settlement of your case before collecting payment. If your doctor does not do this, then you will need to contact your insurance company about getting medical procedures or treatments paid for during the claim settlement process.
Record Keeping Musts
Make sure you seek medical treatment and start therapy as soon as possible, leaving any gaps in your treatment can give the other insurance company reasons to fight the case and possibly deny your claim. It could also give your insurance company reasons to not pay due to non-compliance
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Keep excellent records, keep all bills, receipts, and records that you receive from your doctor, pharmacy, or any specialist you may see. Having your paperwork organized will help you receive all you deserve from your case.
When To Hire An Attorney
When is it a good idea to hire an attorney? In a lot of cases, it is easier to let an attorney handle the claim because they are knowledgeable in how the companies work and some have a rapport with the claims representatives. Having an attorney on your side will save you a lot of time and aggravation should your claim be denied and a lawsuit has to be filed. An attorney will do everything that needs to be done while you concentrate on healing.
Rights to PIP
If you have PIP or Personal Injury Protection also known as no-fault coverage, then you have a right to file for that amount. In some cases, doctors will see you without payment if you do have PIP. PIP helps to cover your medical expenses.
Settling your case depends on the situation, your case may not fully settle until you are released by your doctor. Cases vary from person to person and case to case. Just remember to do what your doctor says and if you hire an attorney to handle the case it is important to have a good working relationship with your attorney for a good outcome.
Author Bio:
Tom Moverman, Esq established the Lipsig Lawyers Firm with Harry Lipsig and his partners in 1989; The firm’s focus is in products liability, personal injury, construction accidents, car accidents and medical malpractice.
