Insurance Claim DOs and DON’Ts after an Accident in Florida

After you have suffered serious injuries in an accident in Florida, you should seek the assistance of a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer for help dealing with the insurance companies of all parties involved.

Filing insurance claims can be very time-consuming and tricky, especially when you have to deal with an insurance claims adjuster who will use several tactics to minimize or deny your claim. An experienced St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer is aware of these common insurance industry tactics and will work hard to preserve your legal rights throughout the claims process.

DOs and DON'Ts When Filing an Insurance Claim

There are some things you can do to protect your legal rights when filing an insurance claim for damages after a Florida accident.

They include the following:

• DO be prompt in calling your insurance company. If you are seriously injured, call as soon as you're able. You could also have someone else place the call.
• DO read over your policy. When you understand your coverage, you'll be able to make the appropriate claims, so don't be afraid to ask questions or consult your lawyer if your insurance policy is confusing.
• DO take photos of visible injuries and vehicle damage. If you can, also try to take pictures of the accident scene itself, especially if weather or road conditions contributed to the accident.
• DO keep written records of any conversations you had with anyone representing an insurance company.
• DO get insurance information from other parties involved in the accident.
• DO save receipts and bills for all expenses related to the accident, including medical expenses and vehicle repair work.
• DO be honest with the insurance claims adjuster.
• DO review all of your insurance policies. You might have coverage under several policies.

There are also some things you don't want to do when filing an insurance claim in Florida.

They include the following:

• DON'T apologize to anyone after an accident in Florida or admit any kind of fault. When speaking with an insurance claims adjuster, state only the facts.
• DON'T allow an insurance claims adjuster to record your conversation. Anything you say could be used against you and your injury claim.
• DON'T miss your insurance company's deadline for filing a claim.
• DON'T be quick to agree to a settlement or accept a check as final payment. You should first discuss your options with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer before signing anything.
• DON'T sign anything that could be a release or waiver. If you don't know what you are being asked to sign, consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer.

Keep in mind that the goal of insurance companies is to pay out as little as possible to settle insurance claims. A St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer will fight to help you get the compensation you deserve to contend with medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Obtaining the Help of a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyer

Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim as the result of an accident in Florida can be complex. In cases such as these, it's best that you have an experienced and trustworthy St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer on your side.

To consult with a St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer about your Florida personal injury claim, contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at 727-345-4566 or 866-836-4947.