Injury Lawyer – The Basic Steps of a Car Accident Claim Process

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident in Miami that was caused by someone else’s fault or negligence, it’s important to consult an experienced Miami car accident lawyer without delay.

Car accidents cause a disruption in the normal routine of one’s life, no matter how small the injuries. When serious injuries occur, the entire family has to bear enormous physical, financial and emotional consequences. Most countries’ legal systems entitle injured victims of accidents to claim compensation by way of filing a personal injury suit. Though most cases are settled out-of-court, through negotiated agreements, a significant number do go to trial. Victims are represented by a personal injury lawyer who helps them build a robust claim to get the deserved settlement.

Settlement is usually paid out by the at-fault party’s insurance company. There are several complex legal, medical and insurance issues involved and experienced Miami personal injury attorneys can safeguard your rights and interests.

What to Do When Car Accidents Happen

Based on the circumstances of your case and the nature and extent of your injuries, it’s important to:

• Stay at the accident-scene. If you’re not seriously injured check status of others in both vehicles. Contact emergency medical services.
• Report the accident immediately to the police/traffic authorities. This helps to document the events and provide an outside view of the disaster in case there are disputes.
• Get immediate medical attention. This is important from a health perspective because many seemingly-minor injuries can later turn out to be serious. Legally, this helps create a record of your injuries.
• Exchange details like license-plate number, name/contact of insurer, policy number, driver’s license details, contact information.
• Get contact details of witnesses.
• Take photographs of the accident site, location, prominent landmarks, position of vehicles, injuries etc.
• Contact your insurers. You’re under no obligation to speak to at-fault party’s insurers/representatives etc.
• Be aware of the Florida statute-of-limitations regulations.
• Contact a Miami personal injury lawyer.

These important steps help to safeguard your interests and ensure that all elements required for legal action are available.

What Is Diminished Value?

Diminished value or DV is the term used to describe the value of a vehicle after an accident. Even if it’s fully repaired/ functioning, its worth less than it was before the accident. The DV claim is separate from your personal injury claim; they don’t interfere with each other. Even after personal injury settlement, you’re entitled to claim DV.

Your insurer may not inform you about this value and many personal injury lawyers don’t handle such claims. A diminished value lawyer Miami helps with assistance from professional appraisers and experts to present a robust claim.