State Farm is one of the largest auto insurance companies in the nation. While State Farm may try to emphasize customer service as its highest priority, like other insurance providers, it is a business intending to turn a profit and protect its shareholders. Because of this, the insurance company and its adjusters will do everything they can to avoid paying accident victims the money they deserve. 

If you are in a car accident in Virginia, dealing with State Farm after an accident without the help of an attorney may mean accepting a settlement offer that is less than you deserve. To maximize your settlement and protect your rights, contact the car accident attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. before you speak with the insurance company. We can help you handle your claim. 

Schedule a free consultation with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. today by calling contacting us online.

Dealing With State Farm After an Auto Accident in Virginia

Here’s what you should do if you’ve been involved in an auto accident:

1. Call the police immediately. This helps ensure that everyone is safe and preserves evidence so that you have a more straightforward case when it comes time to file your insurance claim.
2. Take photos of the scene as soon as possible after the accident, including damage to both vehicles and any injuries sustained by anyone involved.
3. Keep detailed notes on everything that happened leading up to and after the accident, including vehicle registration numbers, driving speeds before impact (if applicable), who was at fault for causing or worsening injury/damage/losses, etc., and anything else relevant that might help state your case later on. 
4. You may also want to take down details about other drivers who were present, so you can verify their stories later if necessary (like whether they were texting while driving).

The most important thing you can do for yourself after getting into an accident is to contact a personal injury lawyer to represent you. These lawyers can help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve. They’ll also be able to answer any questions about the process and ensure that everything goes smoothly from start to finish.

Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Can File a Claim With State Farm

Large insurance companies such as State Farm do everything they can to try to invalidate claims filed against them. It is vital to have skilled legal representation who knows how to deal with large insurance providers and can anticipate delays or roadblocks the insurance company may put up. 

1. When your lawyer files your claim, they may have to provide information such as: 
2. Your insurance policy number or the name and policy number of the at-fault individual or entity 
3. Contact information for passengers involved in the collision 
4. A copy of the police report from the accident
5. Evidence documenting any property damage or injuries
6. Written documentation of bodily injuries caused by the accident, including initial physician or emergency room visits

What Happens After a Claim is Filed

After your lawyer files your claim, it is assigned to a State Farm claims adjuster whose job is to settle your claim. Many people try to settle their claim with State Farm Insurance on their own. However, this is rarely in their best interest. Insurance adjusters are trained to get claimants to make statements that could hurt their claims. 

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Virginia, Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. can help you get compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, and medical bills. We have experienced Virginia car accident lawyers who understand how insurance companies work. We have helped many clients get fair compensation after being involved in crashes caused by others’ negligence.

Reaching a Settlement Offer With State Farm

You’ll want to be prepared when reaching a settlement with your insurance company. It can be tempting just to accept the first offer that comes your way, but this isn’t always in your best interest. Instead, ask your lawyer for advice on what kind of settlement amount is reasonable given the facts of your case and how much damage was done by the other driver. 

If you have a lawyer, they should be able to help you figure out how much your claim is worth. They’ll also be able to negotiate with State Farm on your behalf, making it easier for you to get the compensation you deserve.

What You Shouldn’t Do When Filing a Virginia Accident Claim With State Farm

Don’t make a statement to the insurance company without speaking to your legal counsel first. In Virginia, you have a legal right to be represented by an attorney in any communication with the insurance company. If you feel like your case is simple and clear-cut, it’s still worth talking to an attorney before making any statements. 

Additionally, don’t give State Farm permission to access your medical records without first consulting with the lawyer. Your lawyer will know what information is needed by State Farm and what information should be withheld based on your case specifics. And remember: signing anything without first talking with a lawyer could cause more problems down the road. 

How Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C Could Help You Deal With State Farm After a Collision in Virginia

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.