What to expect during a personal injury claim

Hello Folks, Attorney Paul Samakow here.

What? You’ve been involved in an auto collision, and you think you need to file a personal injury claim?

But what does that mean?  And what is involved?

These are two of the most common questions we get at my law firm.   What exactly happens during a personal injury claim and what is involved?

I’m always glad when we get these questions because it means the person on the other end of the phone has already made one of the most important first steps – they have asked for help.  Many people are reluctant to call an attorney and even ask questions.  Silly them. We don’t charge anything to talk to you.

Pursuing a personal injury claim can be complicated. There are a lot of moving parts. There are targets that must be hit on a timely basis and there are a lot of pitfalls along the way.   If you’re not an expert in personal injury law your best first step is to call the right personal injury attorney.

We will review the details of your case and help determine if you have a valid claim.  If so, we can guide you through the process of filing against the at-fault party.

Once your claim is filed, the insurance company launches their own investigation of the accident and of your injuries. They may request your medical records, police reports or anything they feel is pertinent to your claim.   While it’s important to cooperate with an insurance company’s demands, except for the smallest of injury claims, or claims not involving any injury, having the right personal injury attorney on your side will keep you from being bullied or treated poorly by an insurance adjuster. Translation:  don’t work with insurance company adjusters by yourself if you have any appreciable injury. They will take advantage of you.

After the investigation is complete, the insurance company will either accept “liability” (responsibility), or not. If they do, they may offer a quick settlement.  Ninety-nine times out of one hundred, this first settlement offer is ridiculous and will not cover nearly enough of your losses or medical bills.  Again, this is where having the best personal injury attorney matters.  You need to be sure your offer is fair and properly considers your future medical needs.  Insurance adjusters are notorious for throwing out low ball offers that hardly offer any true compensation for pain and suffering and injuries and loss.

During a personal injury claim, having the best personal injury attorney working for you will help you keep detailed records of all medical expenses, lost wages and other damages related to the accident.  These records will be vital in helping calculate the amount of compensation you are entitled to.

If you or someone you love is ever involved in an auto collision, I am here for you.  Please call my office immediately 703-854-9288 or 301-298-8383.

Until next time,

Please be safe, and NEVER text while driving!

Paul Samakow

Attorney Paul Samakow