Personal InjuryQuestion Insurance Adjusters, say Whittier Car Accident Lawyers
A knowledgeable Whittier accident attorney advises that when negotiating a car collision injury settlement with an insurance adjuster, the more informed you are, the more likely you'll reach a fair compensation figure. Before detailing this important negotiating tactic, a quick summary of the accident statistics for Whittier, California will show how frequently accident victims face these challenges.
Whittier Car Accidents Reveal the Tragedy in Injured and Lost Lives
In 2006, the California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) reported that nine people were killed and 411 people were injured in Whittier car crashes. Drunk drivers were responsible for three deaths and 32 injuries. In addition, three pedestrians were killed and 24 were injured. One motorcyclist was killed and 31 were injured. In 2007, nine car accidents resulted in 11 fatalities. Fatal collisions dropped in 2008 with one car collision ending in one life lost.
Ask Questions, Take Careful Notes, Educate Yourself
Many Whittier car accident lawyers feel you should start by asking an insurance adjuster what specific amounts he's allocated to reimburse you for each item of damage. "Your itemized list should match his in terms of expenses and losses," says John Bisnar. "You should also ask how he arrived at the amounts allocated for your pain and suffering." This is one area that can get pretty complicated. If you don't fully understand something, ask for a detailed explanation. And write down the answer to every question. The details of this Q&A session will be valuable in later negotiations.
Remember, you'll want to learn as much as you can about the whole compensation process. Whittier car collision lawyers know that the claims process can get pretty complex. They also know that insurance company negotiators are skilled professionals who do this on a daily basis. Most accident victims are novices when it comes to negotiating in this area, and they also have many other concerns deal with, so it's easy to get confused with insurance policy jargon. It pays to ask questions because being informed boosts your bargaining position. You'll be less likely to be surprised by a negotiator's language and tactics.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer for More Negotiating Tactics
"Through years of experience, the most successful Whittier car crash lawyers have gained vital negotiating skills," notes John Bisnar. "These tactics can help you sidestep costly mistakes during the negotiating process." The most reputable car collision lawyers offer no charge, no pressure consultations. You owe it to yourself to seek their wise counsel before tackling car crash negotiations on your own.
For more legal answers, read "The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Personal Injury Claim" by California personal injury attorney John Bisnar. The book ($14.99 value) 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. Be sure to check out other Los Angeles County car accident lawyers who practice with BISNAR | CHASE.
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