An experienced Cypress car accident lawyer will tell you that if you’ve been injured in a car accident and want to recover fair compensation for your losses, you must be very shrewd when dealing with insurance companies, particularly the insurance adjuster. But before getting into details, a brief overview of car accidents in Cypress, California may help.
Car Accidents in Cypress Are Alarmingly Tragic
In 2006, the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) showed that four people died and 172 were injured in Cypress car crashes. DUI crashes caused one death and 16 injuries. A total of 20 bicyclists and 12 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents. Motorcycle collisions killed one and injured nine. In 2007, four car accidents resulted in four fatalities. In 2008, one car crash ended in one death.
Be Detailed and Thorough When Dealing with Insurance Adjusters
Experienced Cypress car accident lawyers will advise you to present the insurance adjuster with documents that detail the full extent of your damages and losses. You’ll then want to ask the adjuster how much the insurance company will pay to repair or replace your vehicle. And how much they will offer to compensate you for your lost wages, as well as the doctor, hospital and other medical bills related to your accident. If your injuries require extended long-term care or rehabilitation, you’ll want to know about compensation for those costs. Finally, you’ll want to know how much they will pay for your pain and suffering.
Why You Should Let the Adjuster Make the Initial Offer
The thing to keep in mind is that insurance adjusters are knowledgeable and very savvy negotiators. They’ll want you to make the initial settlement demand first–in other words, a specific dollar sum. That way, they’re in control. They know that you may very well ask for less than what the adjuster was willing to offer. Cypress car collision lawyers say this is where you play hardball and insist that the adjuster come up with the first offer–one that’s realistic. If he resists, tell him you’re thinking of retaining a lawyer. Once the adjuster commits to an offer, you can counter with your offer. But before doing so, tell the adjuster you’ll need some time to think it over, to consult with a lawyer and other family members. Make him sweat. And always act disappointed (never rude or belligerent) with anything he offers.
By: J. Bisnar