The reason you might sue after a car accident, of course, is to get money to pay for your medical bills and other accident-related expenses. Some steps your car accident lawyer will take to seek that money include the following.
Filing an Insurance Claim
The first step in seeking compensation after a car accident is to file an insurance claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. This process involves submitting documentation of the accident, your injuries, and your damages to the insurance adjuster for review. If liability is clear and your damages are well-documented, you may receive a settlement offer to cover your losses.
Negotiating a Settlement
If you receive that offer, you can negotiate for a higher amount. Insurance adjusters often make lowball offers in the hopes of resolving the claim quickly and for less than it's worth. By presenting additional evidence, such as medical records, receipts, and expert opinions, your attorney can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of receiving a fair settlement.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If negotiations with the insurance company fail to result in a satisfactory settlement, your car accident attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. This legal action allows you to seek compensation for your injuries and damages through the court system. A successful lawsuit can result in a judgment awarding you damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Meeting All Deadlines
Knowing the statute of limitations (the time limit for filing a lawsuit) is essential. Different states have different statutes of limitations. In Pennsylvania, for example, the deadline is typically two years from the accident date.
Please file a lawsuit before this deadline to avoid the court dismissing your case and forfeiting your right to seek compensation. Consulting with an attorney will ensure you meet all legal deadlines and requirements.