When you suffer from whiplash after a car accident, working with insurance companies can feel overwhelming. Whiplash is a common injury that affects the neck, caused by a sudden force that makes the head jerk back and forth. It is often seen in rear-end collisions. Even though it might seem like a minor injury at first, whiplash can lead to serious pain, long-term discomfort, and medical complications if not treated properly. Knowing what to do when dealing with insurance companies is important to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. At, Alpert Schreyer, LLC , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Understanding Whiplash Injuries
Whiplash occurs when the soft tissues in the neck, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons, are stretched and torn. This happens due to the sudden movement of the neck during an accident. The symptoms of whiplash might not appear right away. In some cases, it could take hours or even days for the pain and discomfort to set in. Common symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and trouble moving the neck. Some people might also experience blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, or sleep problems.
Because the symptoms of whiplash can be delayed, it is crucial to seek medical attention right after the accident. Even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, a doctor can evaluate your condition and check for signs of whiplash. This not only ensures that you receive proper treatment but also provides documentation of your injuries, which will be essential when dealing with insurance companies later.
Founding Partner Founding Partner Attorney Attorney Attorney
Michael J.
Schreyer
Andrew D.
Alpert
Christopher
Murphy
Michael
Berman
Michael
McCubbin
Dealing with Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters are the people who investigate claims for insurance companies. Their job is to determine how much the company should pay for your injuries and other losses. When working with an insurance adjuster, it is important to remember that they represent the insurance company, not you. Their goal is to settle claims for as little money as possible. Therefore, you should approach your interactions with them carefully.
One of the first things you might be asked to do is give a recorded statement about the accident. It is important to know that you are not required to give a recorded statement right away. Insurance adjusters often use these statements to try and find ways to reduce the amount of compensation they will offer. If you are not prepared or if you say something that can be misinterpreted, it could hurt your case.
Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney who can guide you through the process. An attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you don’t say anything that might affect your ability to receive fair compensation. If you do choose to speak with the adjuster, stick to the facts of the accident and your injuries. Do not guess or speculate about what might have happened, and avoid downplaying your injuries.
Amazing firm. Went above and beyond in making me feel welcomed, informed, and at ease considering the serious reasons for me being there. It was my first time dealing with something like this and it was comforting knowing I had a whole team behind me working to get the best outcome possible which they did. Highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a good reliable lawyer who will work with you and be considerate of your well being.” - Daniel Torres
The Importance of Medical Documentation
In any whiplash case, medical documentation is key to proving the extent of your injuries. After the accident, make sure to keep a detailed record of all medical appointments, treatments, and diagnoses. This includes doctor’s visits, physical therapy, medications, and any other treatments you receive for your injuries. These records will serve as proof that your injuries are real and that they are connected to the accident.
Insurance companies often try to argue that a person’s injuries are not as serious as they claim or that they were caused by something other than the accident. By having thorough medical documentation, you can counter these arguments and show that your whiplash is a direct result of the crash. Additionally, make sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely. If you miss appointments or fail to follow through with recommended treatments, the insurance company might argue that your injuries are not severe or that you are not taking your recovery seriously.
The Role of Time in Whiplash Cases
When dealing with insurance companies, time can play a critical role in your case. Insurance companies often try to delay the claims process in the hope that you will settle for a lower amount out of frustration. It is important to be patient and not rush into accepting the first settlement offer. If you settle too quickly, you might not receive enough compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
On the other hand, there are also time limits you need to be aware of. Every state has a statute of limitations, which is a deadline for filing a personal injury claim. In many cases, if you do not file your claim within this time frame, you could lose your right to seek compensation altogether. It is important to know the statute of limitations in your state and make sure you file your claim within that time.
By working with an attorney, you can ensure that your claim is filed on time and that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement offer. An attorney can also help you understand how much your case is worth and negotiate with the insurance company to make sure you receive fair compensation.
Value of a Personal Injury Case Choosing a Personal Injury AttorneyRelated Videos
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Dealing with Insurance Companies
There are several common mistakes that people make when dealing with insurance companies after a whiplash injury. One of the biggest mistakes is not seeking medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it is important to get checked out by a doctor. As mentioned earlier, whiplash symptoms can be delayed, and without medical documentation, it will be difficult to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident.
Another mistake is waiting too long to file a claim. As time passes, it can become more difficult to gather evidence and prove that the accident caused your injuries. Additionally, witnesses’ memories can fade, and important details can be lost. Filing your claim as soon as possible gives you the best chance of receiving fair compensation.
It is also a mistake to trust the insurance company to have your best interests in mind. Remember that the adjuster works for the insurance company, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible. If you accept the first settlement offer, you might not receive enough compensation to cover all of your expenses. Always consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer to make sure it is fair.
75% of people who are injured due to someone else's negligence don't believe they could pursue an injury claim. 95% of personal injury cases are settled pretrial. Typically, only about five percent of personal injury claims will go to trial. $0 is the amount it will cost you to contact us and start your personal injury claim. Reach out for a free consultation.Personal Injury Statistics
Why Legal Representation is Important
When dealing with insurance companies after a whiplash injury, having legal representation can make a big difference. An attorney can handle all communications with the insurance company, gather evidence to support your claim, and negotiate on your behalf. This allows you to focus on your recovery without the added stress of dealing with insurance adjusters and paperwork.
An attorney can also help you understand the full value of your case. Whiplash injuries can result in medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain and suffering. Insurance companies often try to downplay these costs, but an attorney can make sure you receive compensation for all of the damages you have suffered.
In addition to negotiating with the insurance company, an attorney can help you file a lawsuit if necessary. While most whiplash cases are settled out of court, there are times when the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. In these cases, taking legal action might be the best option. Having an attorney by your side ensures that you have someone who understands the legal process and can fight for your rights in court if needed.
How to Handle Settlement Offers
When the insurance company makes a settlement offer, it is tempting to accept it right away, especially if you are dealing with medical bills and lost wages. However, it is important to take the time to evaluate the offer carefully. Settlement offers are often lower than what your case is worth, and once you accept a settlement, you cannot go back and ask for more money later.
Before accepting any settlement offer, consult with your attorney to make sure it is fair. Your attorney can help you understand what your case is worth and whether the offer covers all of your expenses. If the offer is too low, your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to try and get a better deal. In some cases, it might be necessary to take legal action to ensure you receive fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident and is suffering from whiplash, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. You do not have to face this process alone. The attorneys at Alpert Schreyer, LLC are here to help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Alpert Schreyer, LLC today for a free consultation and let us handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery.