3 Important Steps to Take during Initial Claim Discussions – Lessons from an Omaha Accident Attorney
Despite advances in vehicle safety, car accidents are still common in Nebraska. In fact, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation, there were more than 30,000 passenger-vehicle crashes in 2014. Many of these victims turned to an injury lawyer for help recovering lost wages, health-care expenses and other damages.
If you were in a collision, then you may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. However, your behaviors after the wreck can affect your ability to bring a successful claim.
It is likely that you will have to discuss certain details with the other party’s insurance company. These initial talks can significantly affect your claim, which is why it is best to consult a lawyer for guidance.
If your injury happened in Nebraska, then an Omaha accident attorney from Rensch & Rensch Law can handle this correspondence and protect your interests. We can also calculate the damages so you claim the amount that you deserve. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
In the meantime, read on to learn three important steps to take during your initial claim discussions:
- Remain Civil
While you may have strong feelings of resent toward the negligent party, it is important to remain polite and civil at all times. Be sure to show the same courtesy to insurance companies. Insurance adjusters deal with many angry people on a regular basis, but if you are firm yet polite, then you may be in a better position to negotiate.
- Do Not Provide Extensive Personal Information
During the initial discussions, you do not need to provide extensive personal information to the other party or insurance company. Provide the insurance adjuster with your full name, contact details and address. The insurance adjuster for the negligent party may ask questions about your occupation and salary, but you do not have to disclose this information at this stage.
- Provide Only the Necessary Details
Nebraska.gov provides comprehensive details on how to file an accident claim, including the information you need to provide and to whom. If you are filing a claim with the other driver’s insurance company, then you do not need to give a comprehensive statement about how the accident occurred in the initial stages.
You should only offer details about the type of crash, which cars it involved, and where it happened. During the early stages of negotiations, you should tell the insurance adjuster that you are still investigating the accident, and you will discuss other facts related to the claim at a later time. You only need provide comprehensive information on the collision and how much you wish to claim when you make a written demand.
If you were in a crash, then an Omaha accident attorney from Rensch & Rensch Law can guide through the initial discussions and the claims process. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 1-800-471-4100.
