In some states, a driver’s automotive insurance company is automatically responsible for financial compensation even if a different driver caused the accident. This is known as no-fault insurance. That’s not the case in Arizona, however. When someone has been seriously hurt by another driver, that person’s insurance is supposed to pay for medical expenses, lost wages and damage to the vehicle. An accident lawyer in Tucson, AZ can help this person by negotiating a fair settlement.
Rely on the Lawyer
In a so-called fault state, the other driver’s insurance company is likely to contact the injured person directly. The representative may want to conduct an interview about the collision and the person’s physical condition, and perhaps discuss compensation.
It’s better to refer this representative to the claimant’s accident lawyer in Tucson, AZ. Sometimes the injured person unintentionally offers information that undermines the case. People usually want to be cooperative, but that can lead them to volunteer details that weren’t asked about. They also might offer wrong speculations in regard to what actually happened and how soon they expect a full recovery.
Limited Information
Any information given by the claimant should be in writing and address objective details. That might only include the date and time of the accident, names of doctors who provided treatment, and the facilities where treatment was provided. A lawyer from a firm such as Price and Price Law can decide what other information is relevant and will support the client’s case.
No Private Meetings
Under no circumstances should the claimant meet with the insurer’s representative at home, in a restaurant or anywhere else without the lawyer present. The adjuster or agent may try to convince this person to sign papers after what seems like a friendly conversation. Insurance representatives can be very persuasive in this effort.
Proving Fault
In many instances, deciding which driver was responsible for the accident is easy, but that’s not always the case. The insurer will want to determine whether the claimant had any part in causing the collision, which can make it difficult to collect money. In a personal injury case, the plaintiff might not receive compensation unless it’s possible to prove the other driver was at fault.
