How to Deal with Insurance Companies After a Motor Vehicle Accident

THE BARIC BLOG

A motor vehicle accident can be a traumatic experience. Dealing with insurance companies afterwards can sometimes prove to be equally challenging. With over 25 years of experience in personal injury law, Steve Baric, a former prosecutor and one of America’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers, offers his insights on how to navigate these complexities.

Understand Your Coverage

Understanding the specifics of your insurance coverage is crucial. It can give you a clear picture of what to expect when you file a claim.

Document the Accident

Accurately documenting the incident is an important step. Detailed documentation can provide compelling evidence during negotiations with insurance companies.

Seek Legal Counsel

Engaging the services of a personal injury lawyer early on can be beneficial. A lawyer can guide you through the process and represent your interests during discussions with insurance companies.

Negotiating a Settlement

Negotiating with insurance companies can be a complex process. Patience, persistence, and the support of a competent attorney are often required to achieve a fair settlement.

Lawsuits and Trials

If negotiations don’t yield a satisfactory outcome, a lawsuit may be necessary. This process involves additional steps and complexities, making legal representation all the more important.

The Role of Liability Insurance

Understanding the role of liability insurance in your case is critical. It could determine the compensation you receive in a personal injury claim.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If the other party involved in the accident doesn’t have adequate insurance, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage could come into play.

Conclusion

Dealing with insurance companies after a motor vehicle accident can be challenging, but with the right information and an experienced attorney by your side, you can navigate this process more effectively. Let Steve Baric and his team assist you in this difficult time.

About Steve Baric

For over 25 years, Steve Baric has been helping clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. A former prosecutor and one of America’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers, he has successfully recovered over $100 million for his clients.

For a free case review, contact Steve Baric at (833) 467-2022
Email sbaric@bariclaw.com
Text SMS (949) 570-9165.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are detailed responses to seven of the most frequently asked questions about dealing with insurance companies after a motor vehicle accident:

What should I do immediately after an accident?

Safety should be your priority. After ensuring everyone is safe, it’s essential to call the authorities, seek medical attention, and document the incident. Also, notify your insurance company and consult a lawyer as soon as possible.

How do I handle communication with the insurance companies?

It’s advisable to have all communication go through your attorney. This protects you from inadvertently saying something that could jeopardize your claim. It’s important not to admit fault or make statements about the accident to the insurance company without consulting your attorney.

Should I accept the insurance company's first offer?

The initial offer from an insurance company is often lower than what you may be entitled to receive. It’s best to consult with your attorney before accepting any offer.

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your insurance company may compensate you if you have the appropriate coverage. Consult with your attorney to explore your options.

Do I need an attorney to deal with the insurance company?

While it’s not mandatory, having an experienced attorney can be advantageous. They can help protect your rights and potentially negotiate a more favorable settlement.

Can I negotiate my claim with the insurance company myself?

Yes, you can negotiate your claim directly. However, keep in mind that insurance companies have experienced adjusters and attorneys working for them. Having your own attorney can help ensure your interests are protected.

What are my rights when dealing with insurance companies after a motor vehicle accident?

You have the right to seek compensation for your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You also have the right to legal representation during the process.

References

“Understanding Your Insurance Coverage”, Insurance Information Institute. Link ↩
“What to Do After a Car Accident”, Nolo. Link ↩
“When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney”, LegalZoom. Link ↩
“Negotiating Car Accident Settlements”, AllLaw. Link ↩
“Negotiating with Insurance Companies”, Nolo. Link ↩
“Going to Trial in a Personal Injury Case”, FindLaw. Link ↩
“Liability Insurance”, Investopedia. Link ↩
“Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage”, Insurance Information Institute. Link ↩
“Steve Baric Profile”, Baric Law. Link ↩
“Steve Baric’s Recoveries”, Baric Law. Link ↩

NEED HELP?

Our team is here to assist you. Give us a call and we will be happy to discuss your case in a no-obligation consultation.

Kim Belle

May 26, 2023

The lawyers at Baric Law are the best personal injury attorneys I know. I would highly recommend the lawyers at Baric Law.

Lashes Hawaii

May 26, 2023

I had the privilege of working with Steve Baric on a complex civil case, and I cannot express my gratitude enough for the exceptional service and outstanding results. From the very beginning, Mr. Baric demonstrated unwavering dedication and a deep understanding of the legal intricacies involved. What truly sets Baric Law apart is their ability to expedite the process without compromising the quality of the work. Within a remarkably short period, we saw tangible progress that left me astounded. Their efficiency, attention to detail, and strategic approach made all the difference in swiftly navigating the legal system. Moreover, Steve Baric is a champion of justice. His unwavering commitment to securing a fair resolution left me with a renewed faith in the legal system. Throughout the entire journey, Mr. Baric provided clear and concise communication, explaining complex legal matters in a way that was easy to understand. He patiently addressed my concerns, always making me feel valued and empowered. It was evident that he deeply cares about his clients. I wholeheartedly recommend Baric Law to anyone in need of legal representation for their unwavering dedication, fast results, and commitment to justice.

Salvador Carrillo

May 23, 2023

Estaba muy angustiado cuando ocurrió mi accidente, necesitaba encontrar un abogado de inmediato. Me alegro haber encontrado el bufet de abogados de Steve Baric. Su servicio al cliente es excepcional, el abogado Steve y su equipo se tomaron el tiempo para comprender mis problemas y respondieron rápidamente con las acciones necesarias para resolver mi caso. Si algún otro día llegara a necesitar servicios legales nuevamente, sin duda me pondré en contacto con este bufet de Steve Baric.

Joe Lopez

May 22, 2023

Steve is not only an outstanding lawyer he’s a really a good guy that cares for the person as well as defending his clients best interest. My first call would be to Steve if ever or when I’d need legal help or just a question concerning a legal matter. I have worked with Steve before and I have recommended his services to my family, friends and business associates. He’s a class act and he cares, two qualities that separates him from other firms. I highly recommend calling Steve if and when you’d need legal support.

Gilbert Mendoza

May 18, 2023

This law firm is GREAT!! I felt as though my case mattered. I would get updates on my case as the case went on. I didn't feel like just a number at Baric Law firm, my case was handled in a professional manner and I was always able to talk to Steve and his team working on my case. I highly recommend Baric law and his team!! You will not be disappointed!

Jorge Lopez

May 15, 2023

Great work! Excellent service. For anyone looking for a great team to help with personal injury case Steve Baric is the guy to go to, him and his team are very great they will go out their way to make you feel acknowledge. Me and my wife were recently in a really bad accident I had to get surgery done on my knee due to the accident, my wife had so much pain in her back. We were really scared and didn’t not know how we were going to pay or even go to work it really hurt us to be out of work. But thanks to Steve who was recommended to us from a friend in Orange County helped us speed up the process and got us the help we needed. We even received a good compensation not only to me that I was the driver but my wife as well she was just the passanger. I will for ever be grateful for Steve and his team.

ERIKA MARTINEZ

May 10, 2023

Excellent Attorney! I couldn't have come across Steve and his team at a better time, my brother and I were in a car accident. We didn’t know where to even start as our car was totaled and we had serious injuries. We both decided to contact attorneys and Steve was one of those. Hiring Steve and his team was the best decision we made. Steve and his team were very helpful kept us very well informed and up to date on everything. Hi team connected my brother and I with a chiropractor and doctors for treatment. All in all, we got treated and did not have to pay anything out of pocket. Steve got us a good settlement. They are very professional, very responsive, and knowledgeable.

Fabiola

May 4, 2023

I would highly recommend Steve at Baric Law to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. Not long ago i was in a car accident where the car did not stop in time. I had to deal with the insurance who did not want to cover all my expenses. That is when I decided to get an attorney. I am so glad i found Steve and his team. Not only did they make things easy for me but they helped me understand my situation much better. They got me more than i expeceted to get, such as compensation, my medical bills reimbursed and the time i took of paid. He is located in Orange County but can help anyone in any county. I myself am located in LA and i had no issues with the distance. He makes everything so easy and moves the case quickly. Baric Law is your go to for any accidents.

Griselda

April 18, 2023

Amazing team, great communication, very responsive, and very knowledgeable. My family was referred to Steve to represent our elderly Spanish speaking grandfather in a bad auto accident. Steve immediately came up with an action plan and communicated really well with our grandfather. Steve was able to obtain a quick and favorable settlement for our grandfather. I highly recommend Steve Baric to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney.

D Roh

April 13, 2023

Outstanding Legal Support & Results - Highly Recommend Steve Baric at Baric Law! I recently had the pleasure of being represented by Steve Baric at Baric Law following an unfortunate auto accident in which I was a victim. I cannot emphasize enough how incredible my experience was with Steve and his team. From the very beginning, Steve's approach was client-centered and empathetic. He was always available to answer my calls and address my concerns, no matter the time of day. His professionalism and dedication to my case truly put me at ease during an otherwise stressful time. Not only was Steve thorough in answering all my questions, but he also took charge in dealing with the insurance companies. This allowed me to focus on my recovery, knowing that I was in good hands. His experience and expertise in personal injury law resulted in a favorable outcome for my case. I was compensated for my lost wages, my car was repaired, and I received compensation for my injuries and loss. I wholeheartedly recommend Steve Baric at Baric Law to anyone in need of legal assistance, especially for personal injury cases. His dedication, knowledge, and genuine care for his clients make him an outstanding choice. Thank you, Steve, for your exceptional work and for helping me through this challenging time!

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