Personal InjuryNegotiating a Settlement? Consult a Cypress Car Accident Lawyer
A seasoned Cypress accident injury attorney knows that if you've been injured in a car crash and expect to be fairly compensated for your losses, you must exercise skill and caution when dealing with insurance companies, especially the insurance adjuster. Before delving into this area, a quick review of car accidents in Cypress, California may be helpful.
Car Accidents in Cypress Reveal a Year of Tragedies
In 2006, the California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) showed that four people died and 172 were injured in Cypress car crashes. Drunk drivers caused one death and 16 injuries. A total of 20 bicyclists and 12 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents. Motorcycle collisions killed one and injured nine. In 2007, four car accidents resulted in four fatalities. In 2008, one car crash ended in one fatality.
Provide Insurance Adjusters With Details of Your Losses
Smart Cypress car accident lawyers will tell you to provide your insurance adjuster with detailed documents of your damages and losses. "Ask the adjuster how much the insurance company is willing to pay for the repair or replacement of your vehicle," notes John Bisnar. "And what they will offer for your lost wages, and your doctor, hospital and other medical bills. If your injuries call for extended long-term care or rehabilitation, ask about compensation for those expenses. Lastly, ask how much they will pay you for your pain and suffering."
It's Smart to Let the Adjuster Make the First Offer
Remember that insurance adjusters are highly skilled negotiators. They will hem and haw and insist you make the first settlement demand--a specific dollar sum. This keeps them in control of the negotiations. They realize that you could easily ask for less than what they're willing to offer. Cypress car collision lawyers say this is where you play tough and let the adjuster make the first offer--a realistic one. If he balks, say you're considering hiring a lawyer. When the adjuster finally commits to an offer, you can make a counter offer. But don't be quick to do so. Tell him you want some time to think it over, to consult with a lawyer and other family members. Keep him guessing. And remember to act disappointed (never rude or belligerent) with any offer he makes.
Seek the Advice of a Car Accident Lawyer If Things Get Too Complicated
An experienced Cypress car crash lawyer who regularly negotiates with insurance adjusters can be a very powerful ally. He or she can help you negotiate a fair settlement for your losses. Some of the most highly credentialed car accident lawyers offer no charge, no pressure consultations. And fees are most often on a contingency basis.
For further consultation, please read "The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Personal Injury Claim" by California personal injury attorney John Bisnar. The book is free to accident victims--just go to www.BestAttorneyBooks.com to get a copy sent to you, or you can buy one at www.Amazon.com. Please see other BISNAR | CHASE Orange County car accident lawyers.
Orange County Office
1-800-561-4887
(click on icons for more information)
SLS Consulting
