Your head is probably spinning in the aftermath of a car crash. You’re wondering how bad your injuries are, what exactly caused the crash, and whether you should report it to your insurer right away. While you must report your accident sooner rather than later, the exact time limit depends on the terms of your auto insurance policy.
Most insurers require claimants to report accidents promptly, typically within several days of the incident. Waiting too long may result in your insurer denying your claim altogether. It’s also in your best interest to talk to a York car accident lawyer first before calling your insurer.
This may sound counterintuitive because it’s your insurer, after all. However, you should remember that your insurer’s top priority is to protect its interests, not yours. Likewise, anything you say in the initial conversations with your insurer will significantly influence how much compensation you end up receiving or not getting at all.
At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, you can trust our auto insurance lawyers to help you avoid standard insurance claims-related pitfalls and fight for your right to get compensated fairly and as soon as possible.
Beware of These Common Insurance Claim Issues
Even if you report your accident right away, insurance companies often look for reasons to avoid paying the full amount, such as:
- Disputing the severity of your injuries
- Claiming your medical treatment wasn’t necessary
- Arguing that the damage was pre-existing
- Offering a quick settlement that won’t cover your injuries and related losses
If your accident involved serious injuries, was caused by someone else, or you’re unsure who’s at fault, having a lawyer in your corner from day one is one of the smartest moves you can make. We can guide you on what to say, how to document your injuries, and whether you’re owed more than the initial settlement offer. Once an accident lawyer gets involved, insurers know they can’t lowball your claim without being challenged.
How Talking to a Seasoned York Car Accident Attorney Can Help
It’s tempting to report your accident and get the call over with. However, insurance adjusters are trained to obtain information that can reduce the amount they owe you. You may say something like, “I didn’t see the other driver,” or “I feel fine now,” without realizing that they can use these statements against you later. When you talk to a lawyer first, you’re not walking into that call blind. They can explain what and what not to say, review your policy, and even report the claim for you.
This is especially vital if your accident involves serious injuries, liability hasn’t been determined, or if the other driver’s insurance company is pressuring you to settle. Your lawyer can speak on your behalf, ensure your statements are accurate and protected, and calculate the actual value of your claim.
Let Our Accident Attorneys Safeguard Your Insurance Claim
Reporting your accident is crucial. However, how and when you do it can significantly impact your claim. That’s why your first step should be speaking with our York car accident lawyers. At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, we have assisted numerous drivers in obtaining compensation for all types of accidents, even when insurers are reluctant to settle. Arrange your free consultation by contacting us online or calling 717-229-6580 before it’s too late.