How to Safeguard the Rights of Accident Victims?
People affected by accidents find themselves in a total loss situation. They suffer loss of property as well as bodily injuries. Amidst all the pain and suffering the victim of the accident is in a confused state of mind. This is the time when the role of a voluntary or non voluntary organization becomes prominent. Each state confers upon its citizens several rights. Therefore, there are several rights of an accident victim. It is not possible for every person to know his accident victim rights. It is for this reason legal help is highly recommended to people who have suffered in automobile accidents.
One should always opt for uninsured motorist coverage. Such insurance takes care of your expense even if the driver at fault is an unknown person in a hit and run accident. That is not all, if the drivers insurance does not cover your expenses; the uninsured motorist coverage takes care of your extra expenses. This is only a very small bit of information on accident policies. It is extremely difficult to look at various legal aspects of automobile accidents. Thus to ensure justice, all accident victims must go in for legal help.
Steps to safeguard rights of an accident victim:
Try to manage a record of the contact details of any eye witnesses to the accident. It is of great help when you are seeking compensation to have independent eyewitness testimony. Keep all evidence of the automobile accident, including but limited to photos.
Consult a lawyer as soon as possible. Go in for a free consultation at any reputed law firm and these people will guide you. Automobile accidents have many intricate and complicated issues. To maximize your recovery from the insurance company, there is no alternative to a lawyer.
Never ever try to setup a claim with the insurance company personally. Remember, all insurance companies are profit making organizations. To meet their objectives, they will try to settle your claim for as little as possible. The settlement amount may not even suffice for your medical expenses, let alone lost wages and pain & suffering.
Once you agree to a settlement, it is final. No additional compensation will be given to you. Automobile accidents involve a lot of technical and legal aspects which requires the expertise of a lawyer. Do not accept a settlement from the insurance company unless you feel it justly compensates you for your damages.
Do not make any comment to an insurance adjuster regarding your case without consulting your lawyer. Even if you feel you are at fault, tell the same to the attorney and not to the insurance company or media.
Out of court settlements should also be done in the presence of an attorney. Even if the party at fault is offering enough money for compensation in automobile accident, do not accept without the lawyer’s permission.
For the legal fees, no up-front payments are required. In automobile accidents, lawyers charge contingent fees. These fees and percentages should be discussed with the lawyer prior to signing any contracts. Never assume fees. It may sometimes cost you more than the compensation you receive from the insurance company.
These details will ensure that you are never financially burdened by a settlement involving an automobile accident. Administer a little caution as you are the best person to safeguard your own rights!
