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A HOUSTON AUTO ACCIDENT LAWYER CAN HELP YOU NAVIGATE THE INSURANCE PROCESS

Richard Ardoin
July 1, 2016

Insurance coverage can be pretty confusing, with contracts and policies that are filled with fine print, legalese, and other information that doesn't make a lot of sense. Unfortunately if you ever find yourself involved in an accident and you're trying to get a fair settlement from an insurance provider, you will need to thoroughly understand the process to get the best outcome. The good news is that you don't have to do it on your own—you can hire a Houston auto accident lawyer to help you navigate the whole process.

STEP 1: THE INITIAL INVESTIGATION

After an accident, the insurance company will assign a claims adjustor to take a look at the case. He or she will be responsible for:

  • Reviewing the police report and any other documentation from the accident

  • Interviewing any and all drivers involved

  • Speaking with witnesses or reviewing witness statements

  • Visiting the scene of the accident (if possible)

  • Checking vehicles and taking photos of the damage

  • Reviewing medical records for information about injuries suffered during the accident

If you believe someone else was at fault, it is important that you hire an auto accident lawyer in Texas to represent you before you give any statements or sign any documents from the insurance company. This will help protect you and ensure you don't get short-changed in your compensation.

STEP 2: NEGOTIATION

The insurance company should be responsible for covering any and all expenses related to your accident, including vehicle repair or replacement, medical bills, lost wages if you miss work time due to injuries, and other emotional suffering brought on by the accident. An experienced Houston car accident attorney can help calculate all of these costs and negotiate a fair offer based on your case.

STEP 3: SETTLEMENT OR TRIAL

The goal of most insurance companies is to pay you the least amount of money possible so they can protect their company profits. Hiring an auto accident lawyer signals to the insurance company that you are willing to take the case to trial, and that you understand what constitutes fair compensation. These things can help you get a settlement offer that is much higher than if you decided to do it on your own. Plus, if it does go to trial, you'll have someone who is experienced with these types of cases working for your best interest.