BEFORE NEGOTIATING WITH AN INSURANCE COMPANY…
There are a few things you should consider:
What should the insurance company pay?
If, through no fault of your own, you have been injured or your car has been damaged by someone else, the law provides you with remedies. In general, you may be compensated for:
repairing or replacing your car
medical bills
lost time from work
pain and suffering
Which insurance company should pay you?
In North Carolina, every car on the road is required to have insurance, but sometimes deciding which insurance company to file with can be difficult. For example, you may have to file against your own insurance company. This may increase your premium.
What do you have to give the insurance company?
Insurance companies employ trained professionals to handle claims. It may be to your advantage to speak with an attorney to determine if you should let the insurance company have:
a recorded statement of how the accident happened;
your social security number; or
releases allowing access to your medical and work records.
What is a fair settlement amount for a bodily injury claim?
It may be difficult to determine the amount you should reasonably expect to recover. For example, if you were injured by a drunken driver, you may be able to recover punitive damages in addition to the remedies listed above. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the offender for recklessness or willful and wanton conduct.
Do you need an attorney?
You can discuss your case with Adam Draper or Larry Wagner of Draper & Wagner, PC by phone or in person at no cost or obligation to you. Mr. Draper and Mr. Wagner are experienced attorneys who have successfully handled a wide range of personal injury cases. They will explain your options and help you decide how to proceed.