The TRUTH About Richmond Auto Accident Claims

After a motor vehcle accident you will surely feel lost about what you should and shouldn't do? Family members, friends, television commercials and even the internet will bombard you with information regarding what they believe is in your best interest. Some of this information may be be misleading and just plain wrong. How do you know who to trust?

Here are several misconceptions you might hear:

  • 1. There is a set formula used to calculate all settlements.

This could not be further from the truth. Each case is handled differently and a variety of factors are considered when calculating settlements, including venue (where the accident happened), the severity of your injuries and whether you can prove the other driver was at fault.

  • 2. Insurance companies will gladly pay your medical bills as they come.

This is surely not the case. Automobile insurance companies rarely pay your medical bills as they are incurred after an automobile accident. If you have health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid, you should submit your bills to your health insurance carrier so they do not go into collections. If you have not coverage, ask the doctor if they will hold off on collection activity while your case is pending.

Insurance companies are well known for their stubbornness when it comes to paying a victim's medical expenses. You must be prepared for them to dispute each and every bill that you send them.

3. The insurance company will agree on the first settlement proposal you submit

No. The negotiation process is usually quite extensive and burdensome. An attorney will skillfully and ardently negotiate on your behalf to reach a settlement that will adequately compensate you for your injuries.

  • 3. Any lawyer in town will get me the same settlement.

This is a dangerous misconception. Some law firms are more equipped and experienced than others to handle your claim. Established firms have the tools, staff and experience that others don't. You wouldn't go to back surgeon for a heart operation - so why would you go to just any law firm to handle your personal injury case? A law firm specializing in personal injury law will use its experience to gett you the settlement you deserve.

  • 4. It's a good thing when a lawyer refers you to a doctor.

Doctor's are a necessary element of any personal injury claim so that any injuries you have sustained in the accident may be substantiated. However, referral relationships may be brought to light during cross examination by the defense attorney. Juries are known to frown upon a doctor-attorney relationship. If you have a primary care physician, you should see your own doctor for injuries from the accident.


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