“Navigating the Claims Process After a Car Crash in Globe, Arizona”

Navigating the Claims Process After a Car Crash in Globe, Arizona

The last thing anyone wants to deal with after a car crash is navigating the claims process. But if you’ve been in an accident in Globe, Arizona, it’s important to understand your legal rights and what to do next. Knowing the steps you need to take can make the situation more manageable and help protect your rights.

Understanding Your Rights

No matter what caused your car accident, you have certain rights that should be respected. To start, you have the right to receive medical care and financial compensation for any injuries or damages incurred as a result of the crash. You also have the right to be treated fairly by insurance companies and other parties involved in the claims process.

Figuring Out Who is at Fault

In order to determine who is at fault for an accident, Arizona uses something called “modified comparative negligence.” This means that if you were partially responsible for an accident, your damages may still be recovered but will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if the court finds that you are 20% liable for an accident involving $20,000 worth of damages, you would only be able to recover up to $16,000 from the other party.

The Importance of Hiring a Lawyer

When dealing with a car accident in Globe, Arizona, it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side throughout the claims process. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. They can also provide advice on how best to navigate the claims process and represent you in court if necessary.

Making a Claim

Once you’ve hired an attorney, they will help guide you through the claims process step-by-step. The first step is usually filing a claim with your insurance company or with the other driver’s insurer (if applicable). Your lawyer will help identify who is liable for damages and gather evidence of fault before submitting a demand letter outlining all of your losses. Once this letter has been submitted, negotiations between both parties will begin.

Negotiations and Settlements

The negotiation process could take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on how complicated the case is. During this time, both parties will work together (with assistance from their lawyers) to reach an agreeable settlement amount that takes into account all of your losses (including medical bills, property damage costs, lost wages, etc.). Once an agreement has been reached, both parties will sign a settlement agreement outlining all of its terms and conditions.

What If Negotiations Fail?
If negotiations fail or no agreement can be reached between both parties, then your case may need to go before a judge or jury for resolution. Your attorney can help prepare your case and represent you during trial proceedings if necessary. Keep in mind that going to court comes with certain risks and could result in an outcome that is less favorable than what was offered during negotiations.

Navigating the claims process after a car crash can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. With experienced legal representation on your side throughout the process, you can ensure that your rights are protected and get fair compensation for any injuries or losses incurred as a result of the crash.