Protect Your Rights and Maximize Your Compensation by Letting an Attorney Handle the Insurance Company
After being injured in a car accident in Mississippi, one of the first steps most people take is reporting the incident to their insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurer. While this seems like the natural next move, speaking with the insurance company directly—without legal representation—can hurt your claim and jeopardize your compensation. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to protect their bottom line. This means they often employ tactics to minimize the amount of money paid out to accident victims.
Why an Attorney Should Handle the Insurance Company Communication
When you are dealing with the aftermath of an accident, including medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional distress, speaking with an insurance adjuster can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies often take advantage of the fact that victims are under physical and emotional stress and may make statements that can be used to reduce the value of their claims. A car accident attorney experienced in Mississippi law can protect your rights and ensure that you avoid common pitfalls when dealing with insurance companies.
- Protecting Your Statements
Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement soon after the accident. They may seem friendly or concerned, but their questions are often designed to elicit responses that undermine your claim. For example, they may ask you about your injuries before you have a complete medical diagnosis or imply that you share fault for the accident. Without realizing it, you could make a statement that reduces your chances of receiving fair compensation. An attorney understands how these companies operate and can guide you in providing the right information without jeopardizing your case. - Maximizing Compensation
Insurance companies aim to minimize the amount they pay in claims. They often make initial offers that are far lower than what your case may be worth, assuming that most victims will accept the offer out of financial pressure or misunderstanding of their rights. An attorney knows the full range of damages you are entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. They can negotiate aggressively to ensure that any settlement reflects the true cost of your injuries. - Understanding Mississippi Insurance and Liability Laws
Car accident laws, including fault and insurance liability, vary from state to state. In Mississippi, the concept of comparative negligence applies, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for an accident, you may still recover damages. However, insurance companies may use this rule to diminish your compensation by inflating your level of fault. An experienced attorney will ensure the facts of the case are presented accurately, fighting attempts to misrepresent the situation. - Filing and Handling the Legal Process
If negotiations with the insurance company don’t result in a fair settlement, you may need to file a lawsuit. This can involve gathering evidence, filing paperwork, and meeting deadlines—all of which can be overwhelming while recovering from an injury. An attorney will manage the entire process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that your case is presented with the strongest evidence possible. - Dealing With Delayed or Denied Claims
Unfortunately, some insurance companies delay or outright deny claims. They may argue that the policy does not cover the accident, dispute the extent of your injuries, or claim that you were at fault. These situations are frustrating and can delay your ability to get the care you need. An attorney will know how to counter these tactics and fight for the compensation you deserve. They will also know when an insurance company’s denial is acting in bad faith, a serious violation that can lead to additional legal consequences for the insurer. - Handling Complex Medical Issues
In many cases, injuries sustained in a car accident may not be immediately apparent. Soft tissue damage, concussions, or emotional trauma may take days or weeks to manifest. Insurance companies often push for quick settlements, knowing that future medical issues may arise later. An attorney can work with medical professionals to ensure that all current and future medical needs are included in your compensation demand.
FAQs: Car Accident Claims in Mississippi
What should I do immediately after being injured in a car accident in Mississippi?
First and foremost, seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Many injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. After addressing your medical needs, document the accident by taking photographs of the scene, collecting contact information from witnesses, and making sure you obtain a copy of the police report. Avoid giving statements to the insurance company until you’ve consulted with an attorney to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
Why shouldn’t I talk to the at-fault driver’s insurance company directly?
Insurance companies will often seek statements that they can use to reduce your compensation. They may ask leading questions that imply you were partially at fault or downplay the severity of your injuries. Without legal representation, it’s easy to make statements that can harm your claim, even if unintentional. An attorney can handle these communications to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
What types of compensation can I recover in a Mississippi car accident lawsuit?
In Mississippi, car accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This includes medical expenses (both immediate and future costs), lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation costs. Depending on the severity of the accident, victims may also seek compensation for diminished quality of life or long-term disability. An attorney will evaluate your case to determine all possible damages.
How does Mississippi’s comparative negligence law affect my case?
Mississippi follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning that your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Insurance companies may try to inflate your level of fault to reduce their liability. An attorney can help present the evidence accurately to ensure you are not unfairly blamed.
How long do I have to file a car accident injury lawsuit in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. This may seem like a long time, but building a strong case takes time, and gathering evidence early is critical. An attorney will ensure that your case is filed within the legal deadline and that all necessary documents and evidence are collected to support your claim.
Call Us For A Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Mississippi, let the experienced attorneys at Kellum Law Firm, P.C. handle the insurance companies for you. Protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Call the Jackson office at (601) 969-2709 or the Port Gibson office at (601) 590-9000 to understand your legal rights to compensation and discuss your options.
