Car Accidents and Insurance Settlements 

For any accident other than a minor fender-bender with no injuries, there are a number of things you need to consider before accepting a settlement offer from the insurance company. Insurance companies benefit from offering the lowest possible settlement to people that aren't aware of what is fair compensation. 

Lost Wages 

When you are in a serious car accident you will likely have to take time off of work for doctor visits and possibly even because you have no transportation to get you to and from work. Some insurance companies offer optional lost wage reimbursement coverage. Check your policy to see if you have this coverage. If you don't have this coverage it may be more difficult to recoup your lost wages, but you are still entitled to this compensation. Additionally, some insurance companies may stall by claiming that the other insurance company must pay for your lost wages instead of paying it out of your own coverage. 

Make sure to retain all documentation from your doctor that states you couldn't work because of injuries, and also documentation from your employer regarding the time you did miss from work. 

Pain and Suffering 

In order to be compensated for pain and suffering you need to document all aspects of your injuries. You should take pictures of all injuries incurred as a result of the accident. You should keep track of all medical expenses and talk to your doctor about all of your injuries so that they are all documented. If your doctor sends you to see any specialists, document this as well. You should also keep track of all prescriptions that were used to treat your injuries.  

Generally, pain and suffering is valued at three times whatever the medical expenses were. For this reason it is very important that you keep track of all of your medical expenses. 

Before You Accept a Settlement Offer 

Whether you have decided to hire the expertise of an attorney or not, there are some things you need to make sure are accounted for before you accept any settlement offer from the insurance company. They are:

• Your car will be repaired with quality parts or if it's totaled you are getting a fair amount for it
• You are compensated for all medical expenses already incurred, in addition to any future medical care required because of the accident
• With severe injuries the general rule is that pain and suffering compensation equals three times the medical bills
• You are compensated for any lost wages and other expenses caused by the accident, such as child care because your injuries prevented you from being able to care for your children

Having documentation of all injuries, missed work, car repairs and any other expense incurred because of a car accident is your best defense against the car insurance company.  

This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact an attorney in your local area for more information about car accidents. 

Resources for Accident Victims: 

Searcy Denny of Tallahasee, FL

Wurtzel Law Group – Long Island Accident Lawyers

The Barber Law Firm – Richardson and Plano Injury Lawyers

Jodat Law Group – Personal Injury Firm in Sarasota

Gordon & Elias – Nationwide Truck Accident Attorneys

Snyder Law Group – General Practice Firm in Bradenton

Orlando Resource Website – For Accident Victims in Orlando