Navigating the insurance claim process can feel daunting, especially after suffering a personal injury. However, understanding the insurance claim process will be important if you pursue compensation for injuries and other damages.
A personal injury lawyer can lead you through the insurance claim process after an accident, from filing an initial claim to potentially walking away with a settlement. But what does the insurance claim process typically look like?
Seeking Medical Attention
The first step in the claim process after any injury involves seeking medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, you should get a thorough medical evaluation to check for injuries that may not be obvious. Keep detailed records of any hospitalizations, medical appointments, surgeries, or other treatments related to your accident.
Documenting Your Accident
The next step involves gathering as much information as possible about your accident. This includes photographs of the accident scene and any contributing factors. You should document any injuries or property damage that occurred.
It is also wise to record any corroborating witnesses’ names and contact information, as you may be asked to submit that information with your claim. Documentation will be crucial when filing.
You will likely be ready to file an insurance claim after seeking initial medical treatment and documenting your accident. But what does filing a claim look like?
Contact the Insurer
Report the accident or injury to your insurance company or the insurer for the party you believe is at fault. The insurance company will assign an adjuster to review the claim and determine what is covered. They will be your primary point of contact throughout the claim process and guide you on the documents they need during their investigation.
Submit Required Documentation
The insurance company will require various documents to support your claim, including:
- Medical records and bills
- Police or incident reports
- Photographs of the accident scene and injuries
- Witness statements
- Repair estimates or bills for damaged property
- Ensure that you keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
Be sure to submit accurate copies of these documents and all potentially relevant records. Medical records, reports, and bills are important in any personal injury case.
Statement of Claim
You may be asked to provide a written statement describing the incident and the extent of your injuries. It may be beneficial to speak with a Minneapolis personal injury lawyer before doing so. If you give any statements after an accident, be honest and detailed in your account. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or making assumptions.
Claims Adjuster Review
Personal injury claims pursued with insurance companies will next undergo investigation and evaluation. The claims adjuster assigned to your case will thoroughly investigate your claim. This may involve reviewing your medical records, speaking with witnesses, or examining any other evidence related to your accident. Their goal will be to determine the validity of your claim and value your potential damages.
Medical Examinations
The insurance company may request that you undergo an independent medical examination to verify the extent and severity of your injuries. These examinations are conducted by physicians selected from insurance companies. The results of the IME can significantly impact the outcome of your claim, so it is important to attend and cooperate fully with the examination.
Determining Fault and Liability
The insurance company will also investigate who is at fault and liable for the accident and injuries. This is a major component of the claim process and may be hotly contested in your personal injury case, influencing the compensation you may receive.
For example, your compensation may be reduced or even denied if you are found to be partially at fault. This is known as comparative negligence. A Minneapolis personal injury lawyer may be able to help you overcome it in your case.
Negotiating a Personal Injury Settlement in Minneapolis
Few personal injury cases go to trial. Many settle beforehand to avoid the uncertain outcome that a trial would introduce to your case. The settlement negotiation process has a few components:
Initial Settlement Offer
The insurance company may make an initial settlement offer once their investigation is complete. Whether they make an offer will depend on their evaluation of your claim and assessment of liability and causation.
Any settlement offer should include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages after the accident. Reviewing any offer carefully and considering whether it adequately compensates you for your injuries and losses is important. A Minneapolis personal injury lawyer can help.
Counteroffers and Negotiations
The initial settlement offer may not be the insurance company’s best. If you believe the initial settlement offer is insufficient, you can negotiate for a higher amount. This is where having a Minneapolis personal injury lawyer can be particularly beneficial. They can assess the true value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf for fair compensation.
Mediations
Negotiations sometimes reach an impasse. Mediations in these cases allow neutral third parties to help facilitate a settlement between you and other parties, including the insurance company.
Finalizing a Personal Injury Settlement in Minneapolis
Once a settlement is reached, you will need to accept it formally. This typically involves signing a release that waives your right to pursue further legal action against the at-fault party or insurance company. The insurance company will then issue the payment.
The Role of a Minneapolis Personal Injury Lawyer
A Minneapolis personal injury lawyer can provide experienced guidance throughout the insurance claim process. They can help you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, and navigate the process of pursuing a personal injury claim.
Personal injury attorneys also know how to assess the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages and negotiate for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If your claim is denied or a fair settlement cannot be reached, they can even represent you in a personal injury lawsuit.
Think You Have a Personal Injury Claim? Schedule a Free Consultation with A Minneapolis Personal Injury Lawyer
Understanding how the insurance claim process works is essential for anyone who has suffered an injury that someone else’s negligence caused. A Minneapolis personal injury lawyer can evaluate your potential claim and lead you through the claim process after an accident or injury. Schedule a free consultation today.
Contact the Minnesota Personal Injury Law Firm of Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys For Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Cloud, and Edina.
We proudly serve Hennepin County, Stearns County, and its surrounding areas:
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Minneapolis
825 Nicollet Mall, Suite 615
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(800) 292-1979
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – St. Cloud
1010 W St Germain St # 320
St Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 255-1000
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Edina
5200 Willson Rd #203
Edina, MN 55424
(952) 697-5560
