If you have been injured in a car accident in Maryland, no matter whose fault it was, it is important that you take steps to protect your rights. You can do many things to help ensure your claim is handled properly. One of the most important things is to hire a good personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
A Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. car accident lawyer can help you file your claim with State Farm and ensure that all necessary procedures are followed. We will also do everything in our power to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
How to Maximize the Value of Your State Farm Insurance Claim
State Farm is the nation’s largest provider of home and auto insurance. With over 100 years in business, State Farm has earned a reputation for being one of the most trusted names in the industry. However, as with any insurance company, filing a claim with State Farm is not as easy as it seems.
If you have State Farm insurance and experience a loss, it’s important to know how to make the most of your claim. Here are some tips for ensuring your receive fair value from your State Farm insurance claim:
Call the Police
After the accident, call 911 immediately and ensure you get a police accident report. Even in cases where your accident is a minor fender bender, the police report can help you prove liability.
Document the Accident Scene
If possible, take pictures of your vehicle, the other car, the accident scene, your injuries, and anything related to the accident. Having this evidence can help you establish fault.
Seek Medical Treatment
You should seek medical care immediately after the accident, if you are injured.. Delaying treatment could weaken your claim, allowing the insurance company to argue that your injuries are not as severe as they actually are, or that they are unrelated to the accident.
Do Not Discuss a Settlement Until You Have Reached Maximum Medical Improvement
Some insurance companies make quick settlement offers after the accident. It’s important that you do not accept an offer until you know the full extent of your injuries, limitations, and necessary medical treatment.
For example, you may have a back injury such as herniated disc, only to find out months later that you need a lumbar fusion. If you have already accepted a settlement, you will not be able to ask for more money.
Do Not Sign a Medical Authorization Form
Insurance companies like State Farm may offer to get your medical records and bills for you. Unfortunately, when you sign an authorization form allowing them to do this, they don’t only get the records related to the accident. They will get all of your medical records.
Previous injuries or medical conditions could be used against you to make your injuries seem less than they are. State Farm should only have the information that pertains to your accident.
Do Not Admit Fault
The only person you should discuss fault with is your attorney. Maryland is one of only four states that practices pure contributory negligence. Under this doctrine, an injured victim found at all responsible for their injuries is not entitled to any compensation — even if the plaintiff is just 1% at fault.
How Can a Maryland Attorney Help with My State Farm Auto Accident Claim?
You may need a skilled Maryland personal injury attorney to receive compensation for your injuries. An experienced lawyer will help you evaluate your claim, negotiate with State Farm and other insurance companies involved in the accident, prepare all legal documents and represent you in court if necessary. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., we will:
- Gather Documents and Evidence
- Review Your Claim with You
- Analyze the Legal Issues
- Provide Legal Advice and Represent You in Court
What Information Do I Need When Filing an Insurance Claim with State Farm?
If you were injured in an auto accident, there are several types of information that can be helpful when filing a claim with State Farm:
- The names, addresses, and phone numbers of all drivers involved in the collision
- The license plate number and state of registration for all vehicles involved in the incident
- A police report or other official document detailing what happened at the time of your accident
- Medical bills and medical records
- Police reports
- The amount of money you lost because of your injuries, such as wages or other benefits
- The type and extent of your injuries
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, contact Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. today.
Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C.: Car Accident Attorneys in Maryland You Can Trust With Your State Farm Insurance Claim
If you are looking for the highest level representation available for your personal injury case, turn to Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C.
We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call contact us online to get the proven legal representation you deserve.