To ease your mind a bit, we’ve compiled some information to help you understand how your settlement is calculated and what steps you need to take to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Seeking Medical Attention After An Auto Accident
So, you’ve been in an auto accident. What do you do now?
The best advice that we can give you is to seek medical attention immediately. Any delay in treatment can wreak havoc on your health and your claim.
Insurance companies are businesses. They’re out to make money and they don’t have your best interest in mind. That being said, it’s important to know that if you wait on treatment, you’re giving the insurance company the red flag they’re looking for.
Although, you may be hurt, they are going to take your delay as a sign that your injuries were not that severe. They may even suggest that another event occurred between the time of your accident and the time of your treatment, leading to your injuries.
Don’t give insurance companies a reason not to compensate you. Be proactive.
And the most important reason to seek treatment right away, your health. Even in “minor” auto accidents, you may become seriously injured and not even know it. Symptoms may take days to appear and then you are left in agony, rushing to schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Waiting in discomfort won’t increase your compensation. It will only increase your pain.
Hire An Auto Accident Injury Attorney
Now you’ve decided to seek damages. What should you do?
Hire a reputable attorney to represent your case.
An auto accident attorney understands what you’re going up against. They have what it takes to battle insurance companies and help you seek your rightful damages, such as
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
They handle the stuff you shouldn’t have to – and can get results.
Calculating Your Auto Accident Injury Settlement
Insurance companies use a general calculation to determine your damages.
In short, [Pain multiplier (1-5, dependent on severity) x Medical expenses] + Loss of Income
From that, a percentage based off of the victim’s fault in the auto accident is determined and deducted from the initial calculation.
However, they can also use “high-tech” computer programs to assist in calculating your claim. Using many different factors, these programs are designed to cut costs for insurance companies and offer you the lowest compensation possible.
Here are some of the factors insurance companies use to calculate your claim,
- Income
- Age
- Location of accident
Auto accident attorneys know their tricks. And, they know what you should be awarded.
So, if you’ve been in an auto accident and you need someone on your side to fight for the claim you deserve, contact the Andriotis Law Firm today.
