Car accidents can bring substantial financial burdens to injured victims and their loved ones. No matter how serious an injury can be, lost wages and medical expenses can be overwhelming to handle. This can even be more challenging if insurance coverage is limited. Thus, it’s important to know the average claim settlement in Woodland Hills car accidents. An Oaks Law Firm car accident attorney can help victims understand the major elements that affect car accident claims, offering insights into the process and negotiation skills.
Factors that Impact Car Accident Claims
Several factors can affect the average car accident settlement in Woodland Hills. They include the following:
- What the victim says and does. If you have been injured in a car accident, your statements after the incident can affect your claim, particularly if you sustain minor injuries. Be cautious when assuring the paramedics that you are okay after the crash. Even if you only sustain minor injuries, you must seek medical attention to rule out possible complications that may arise later. Do not just say you are not injured because this offers grounds for an insurer to deny your injury claim. In addition, do not apologize because this can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault.
- Your insurance coverage. Drivers in California should carry at least $15, 000 coverage for bodily injuries per person and coverage of $30, 000 for all car accident victims. In addition, they should carry $5, 000 coverage for property damage. If you are found to be fully at fault for the accident, you can get up to $30, 000 compensation from your policy. But if the negligent driver does have assets to cover your claim you may not get compensation.
- The seriousness of your damage. The severity and extent of your injuries have a direct effect on the value of your claim. Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries lead to higher compensation than milder injuries like muscle sprains. Usually, permanent disabilities can result in significant compensation that includes lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment.
- Future expenses. Rehabilitation following a car accident can be costly. If you end up with a permanent disability, you may need long-term personal care and ongoing medical treatments, adding to expenses. To estimate such future costs, your attorney will consider your lost earning capacity, life expectancy, and age.
- Financial losses. These include medical expenses, lost income, transportation costs, and personal care costs. Your attorney can document such costs accurately, making sure they are accounted for when calculating the value of your claim.
Filing a Car Accident Claim
Pursuing a car accident claim involves the steps below:
- Talking to the police. Right after the accident, you must call the police to file an accident report. Such a report can be used to support your claim.
- Collect evidence. While at the crash scene, collect vital information such as witness statements, video footage, and photos, if possible. Also, keep your medical records and any relevant receipts to boost your case.
- Notify your insurer. Call your insurance provider and give them vital details about the crash. Understand your insurance coverage to know the extent of assistance you can get from the insurer.
- Hire a lawyer. A car accident lawyer will guide you through each step of the claims process. They can handle talks with the insurer involved and negotiate a fair settlement with them. Their expertise makes sure you get the compensation you are entitled to given your injuries and damages. Your attorney will collect all the necessary evidence that can help them build a solid case for you. If they cannot settle your case out of court, they can take it to trial and demand the rightful compensation for you.