In the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, you typically find yourself replaying what happened again and again. Frequently, you wonder, is there anything I could have done to prevent this accident?
When the insurance company of the other driver involved approaches and offers you a settlement, you know the answer immediately: it wasn’t your fault.
How should I respond when approached by an insurance company?
Typically, insurance companies like to handle things quickly. The problem is oftentimes injuries to you and damages to your vehicle do not show up immediately. While you naturally would like to put the accident behind you, it is prudent to wait to see what develops. The more an insurance company pursues you to settle, the more likely it is that it’s a good idea to seek wise advice about your next actions.
Should I sign documents presented to me by an insurance company?
In Michigan, every document that you sign involving an insurance company has legal implications. There are certain words to watch for when you’re filling out insurance documents, even when you’re just describing what happened as the accident occurred. There are certain words and phrases of which to beware. It is wise to seek legal advice before signing any insurance document that contains these words:
- Final or full payment
- Complete release
- Settlement
- All claims or PIP claims
If you accept a settlement from an insurance company, it is difficult to recover damages afterward. It’s important to remember as well that you have three years to settle a claim if there has been an injury in an accident.