Being involved in a Montgomery car accident leaves you with trauma, both physical and emotional. In the aftermath, dealing with insurance companies can add another layer of stress to an already difficult situation. It’s important to remember that you have rights and options when it comes to handling the aftermath of a car accident, including understanding what insurance companies may not want you to know.

The team at McPhillips Shinbaum, led by attorney Aaron Luck, can help you fight for justice. Call us at 334-262-1911 to discuss your next steps.

The Initial Settlement Offer Is Rarely the Best Offer

After a car accident, you might quickly hear from the insurance company with an offer to settle your claim. This might feel like a relief at first, but take a moment before you say yes. Why? Because the first offer they make is often not the best one you could get. Insurance companies are in the business of saving money, so their initial offer might be lower than what you’re truly entitled to.

You’ll want to make sure the settlement covers all your needs. This includes medical bills, car repairs, and any wages you lost from missing work. Before you agree to their first offer, it’s smart to talk to a personal injury lawyer. They can help by looking at the details of your case and advising you if the offer is fair or if you should negotiate for more.

Consulting a Lawyer Can Be Beneficial

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle without all the pieces. This is where the expertise of a personal injury lawyer becomes invaluable. Their attorneys specialize in understanding the intricacies of car accident claims and can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. They have the knowledge to negotiate with insurance companies, aiming to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t be surprised if the insurance company tries to dissuade you from hiring a lawyer; they are acting in their best interests, not yours.

There Are Deadlines for Filing Claims and Lawsuits

Understanding the timeline for filing insurance claims and lawsuits after a car accident is crucial. Each state sets its own laws, so it’s important to know the limits in place before you delay your case too much.

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is typically two years from the accident date. If your claim negotiations drag on and on without you filing a lawsuit, you could unintentionally let that two-year window close. When that happens, you have essentially no way to fight for compensation. While you technically can file a lawsuit in court, it will likely be dismissed right away because the statute of limits has passed. Do not let them run out the clock or you’ll be left shouldering the expenses of your claim alone.

Not All Damages Are Immediately Apparent

In the chaos that follows a car accident, it’s easy to focus on the visible losses: dents in your car, a broken arm, or a laceration. But there are unseen injuries that can sneak up on you later. Think about how a bruise sometimes shows up days after you bump into something. Injuries like whiplash or concussions might not wave red flags until much later. That’s why seeing a doctor right away and keeping track of how you feel is so important.

These hidden injuries can end up needing more care down the road, and if you haven’t documented them from the start, it might be tough to get help covering the cost. Just like you wouldn’t ignore a slow leak in your tire, don’t overlook the small signs your body might be giving you after an accident.

Some injuries that aren’t immediately visible can cause lasting health issues. For example, internal bleeding is fatal when not immediately treated. Even when it is immediately treated, it can still result in death.

Insurance companies are quick to offer a settlement because not all losses can be seen right away. This allows them to offer compensation only for what is visible, not what could still go wrong.

Fight for Compensation with McPhillips Shinbaum

When you’re ready to move forward with your claim, the team at McPhillips Shinbaum is ready to listen. Call us at 334-262-1911 or contact us online to schedule a consultation now.