If you’ve been involved in an auto accident, then there are some things you need to know. Many people believe that you don’t need to hire a lawyer after a car accident, and while this may be true technically, having a lawyer’s presence can help maximize on how much compensation you receive. Insurance companies know that most people don’t understand the true value of their claim. This leads to victims accepting less compensation than what they deserve. If you or a loved one was recently in a car accident, we strongly suggest speaking with our Tarzana, CA auto accident lawyer so that we can handle the legal tasks while you undergo medical treatment and take care of yourself. Let us be of support during this difficult time and help you get payment for your losses. Our team at Barry P. Goldberg is ready to assist you.
Don’t Accept A Settlement Offer, Yet
After you notify your insurance company about a car accident, you are likely to be contacted by an insurance adjuster. This person is going to ask you questions about the car accident, the extent of your injuries, and other factors. This person may seem well intentioned, however, chances are they are looking for ways to minimize your claim. Despite insurance companies supposedly being there to help people when they need it the most, many find out this is not the case. Insurance companies are not afraid to offer low ball settlement offers to innocent people who deserve so much more. If you have been offered a settlement amount, we suggest not accepting it yet. Let our knowledgeable auto accident attorney evaluate what the true value of your claim is worth based on your injuries and losses. We can negotiate with insurance companies so that you get the most possible for what you have gone through. If you do speak with an insurance adjuster, here are some tips to consider:
- Do not offer more information than what is asked of you
- If you do not know the answer to something, say you do not know
- When referring to your injuries, don’t say that you are “fine” or “okay”
- When answering their questions, stick to facts about the accident
- Do not hesitate to have your lawyer handle this conversation instead
Contact Barry P. Goldberg
Being in a car accident is a serious event. People can be left with severe injuries and financial loss from medical bills, property damage, and missing work. Our team at Barry P. Goldberg have seen how people’s lives can be turned upside down because of a car accident. Please do not hesitate to get your questions answered and have a member of our team come to your aid. We understand the stress and anxiety you may be under, and are here to alleviate that burden for you. We are glad to speak with insurance adjusters or other parties so that you get the most compensation possible. Our CA auto accident attorney is prepared to advocate for you.
Building Evidence For Your Auto Accident Insurance Claim
Our trusted Tarzana, CA auto accident lawyer knows that dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident can be overwhelming, especially when your insurance company wrongly blames you for the incident. Understanding how to navigate this challenging situation is crucial for ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Attorney Goldberg has garnered many awards and accolades over his 35 years in the industry and can help you with your case.
Understanding The Importance Of Accurate Documentation
When your insurance company disputes your claim, one of the most critical steps is to ensure that you have comprehensive and accurate documentation of the accident. This includes police reports, medical records, and any photographs or videos taken at the scene. These pieces of evidence can be instrumental in challenging the insurance company’s assessment and demonstrating that you were not at fault.
Communicating Clearly With Your Insurance Company
Effective communication with your insurance company is essential. Start by reviewing your policy thoroughly to understand your coverage and any specific procedures you need to follow. When discussing the accident, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements. Clear, factual communication helps build a strong case and avoids unnecessary complications.
Seeking Witness Testimony
Our Tarzana auto accident lawyer knows that witnesses can play a pivotal role in supporting your claim. If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information and statements. Witnesses can provide an unbiased account of the events, which can be crucial in disproving the insurance company’s claims. Be sure to present these statements to your insurance adjuster to strengthen your case.
Consulting With Legal Professionals
Navigating an insurance dispute can be complex, and having the right legal support is invaluable. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and the best course of action. Our team specializes in handling cases where insurance companies wrongly assign blame. We can guide you through the process, ensuring that your interests are represented and that you have the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Gathering Expert Opinions
In some cases, obtaining expert opinions can be beneficial. Accident reconstruction specialists can analyze the scene, vehicle damage, and other factors to provide a detailed report supporting your claim. Medical experts can also provide insights into the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. These expert opinions can be powerful tools in challenging the insurance company’s findings.
Persisting Through The Appeals Process
If your initial claim is denied, remember that you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be lengthy and requires persistence, but it is an important avenue for challenging an unjust denial. Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company and continue to provide any additional evidence or documentation that supports your case.
Your Advocate In Insurance Disputes
If you are facing an unfair denial of your insurance claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Let us work together to challenge the insurance company’s decision and secure a fair outcome for your case. Attorney Goldberg has received the “Trusted Advisor Award” and can advise you through your claim. Contact our Tarzana auto accident lawyer today for a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your dispute.
How To Document Your Vehicle Damage For Insurance Claims
A Tarzana, CA auto accident lawyer from the law firm of Barry P. Goldberg can walk you through the aftermath of your car crash. Every case is different, and from hit and runs to accidents with uninsured drivers, we’re here to make sure you know your next steps. Here’s what you should do right away:
1. Take Immediate Photos
As soon as it is safe to do so, take comprehensive photos of your vehicle from multiple angles. Capture all areas of damage, no matter how minor they may seem. These photos should include wide shots to establish the context of the accident and closer shots to detail specific damages. If possible, also take pictures of the accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signs, and any debris or skid marks.
2. Record A Video
A video can provide a dynamic overview of the damage and the accident scene, offering a clearer sense of the impact and the surrounding conditions. Walk around your vehicle, narrating any damage you see and its possible effects on the vehicle’s functionality. This can be particularly helpful during the claims process to convey the extent of the damage more vividly.
3. Keep A Damage Log
Start a log or journal detailing the damage and any related experiences, such as issues you notice when driving the vehicle after the accident, if applicable. This record should include dates, descriptions of the damage, and any changes in vehicle performance. A detailed log can be invaluable in disputes about the scope of the damage or the accident’s impact on the vehicle’s value.
4. Obtain A Professional Assessment
Have your vehicle assessed by a professional mechanic or a body shop. Request a detailed report that includes not only the current damages but also an estimate of the repair costs and the potential impact on the vehicle’s overall value. This assessment can serve as a critical piece of evidence when negotiating with insurance adjusters.
5. Collect Maintenance Records
Provide documentation of your vehicle’s condition before the accident. This includes maintenance records, recent inspection reports, and any other documents showing the care you have taken of your vehicle. These records can help prove that the damages claimed are solely due to the accident and not due to prior neglect or wear.
6. Secure Witness Statements
If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information and, if possible, secure written statements about what they saw. Witness accounts can support your version of events and the extent of the damage, which can make a huge difference when you contact your Tarzana auto accident lawyer.
7. Report To Your Insurance Promptly
While the focus here is on documenting damage, it’s also important to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with initial evidence and inform them that more detailed documentation and professional assessments will follow. This initial report can start the claims process and set expectations with your insurer.
Contact Our Team Today
Thorough documentation of vehicle damage makes all the difference. At Barry P. Goldberg, we understand the challenges that come with insurance claims, and we are here to support you. Get in touch with us today, and see how a Tarzana car accident lawyer from our office can help.