The Social Security system is in place to help us through difficult times. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which the system makes our lives even more difficult than they need to be. The day I received the denial letter for my claim, I wasn't sure what I was going to do. After talking with a few friends, I contacted a lawyer. That was the best decision I had ever made. Even with the professional assistance, getting the denial overturned and getting the money that I was owed took several months. I have kept a clear journal of my experience and loaded it with information that can help others get through what can be an impossible time.
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Social security denial - a journal of assistance
What You Need To Know After Your First Car Accident
Alexis Garcia
Getting into a car accident is a terrible moment, especially if it's your first car accident. You may be injured, and there may be severe damage to your car. Check out these seven important facts you should know after your first car accident.
You Need to Talk to the Other Driver and Gather Any Information
Immediately after the accident, collect any and all relevant information. Start by speaking with the other driver. Find out if anyone is hurt, and get the other driver's contact and insurance information. During this conversation, however, don't admit guilt. Even something as simple as apologizing could be seen as an admission of guilt, so just stick to gathering the facts. In addition to talking to the other driver, get information from any witnesses, take pictures and make notes of the time and location of the accident.
It's a Good Idea to Contact the Police
In small accidents, you don't have to contact the police, but it is always a good idea to contact them anyway. A police officer can make an official record of the accident, get both sides of the story and gather information from any witnesses. This can go a long way in helping the insurance company determine what happened and who was at fault.
It's Your Job to Report the Accident to Your Insurance Agency
After the accident, notify your insurance agency as soon as possible. Even if you feel the accident wasn't your fault, your insurance company needs to know, and they will find out. It's best to contact them quickly. Most insurance policies require you to assist with the investigation or else they can deny coverage. When speaking with the insurance agency, make sure to be completely honest and provide all information you have gathered.
Going to the Doctor Can Help Protect You
Even if you don't think you're injuries are severe, it's a good idea to go see the doctor. You never know if those minor injuries might become a chronic condition. Not only can your doctor help determine the extent of your injuries, but going to see your doctor right away will help your case if you do end up requesting more money to pay for your medical expenses.
The Insurance Company Isn't Your Friend
The insurance company probably won't offer you what you deserve right away. They want to make money, so they offer you less, hoping you'll take it. This is why it's important to have a lawyer, especially if you are injured. Your lawyer can help you determine if the settlement is a fair amount. If it isn't, your lawyer can communicate with the insurance company and negotiate a better offer. An attorney is also your best chance at getting a settlement for pain and suffering.
If You Weren't at Fault, You Have the Right to Sue
If the insurance companies determine you weren't at fault for the accident, you can sue the other driver. In most cases, you'd first wait to see if the settlement offered from the insurance company is enough to cover your injuries and damages. If it isn't, the next step is to sue the driver. However, this is only beneficial if the driver has enough money to actually pay. If the driver doesn't, they can simply file for bankruptcy and wipe out the debt.
Your Premiums Won't Necessarily Increase
There is a common belief that if you get into a car accident, your insurance premiums will rise. It doesn't matter if you were at fault or not because the insurance companies feel that anyone who gets into a car accident is more likely to get into another accident. However, there is a chance your premiums won't increase. If you have accident forgiveness on your policy, your insurance company will forgive your first car accident. Plus, in many states, legislation prohibits insurance companies from raising your premium if you weren't at fault.
Even if you weren't at fault, there is a lot of work you need to do after your first car accident. Gathering information right after the accident is the best way to help prove you weren't at fault and getting a fair settlement. For more information about what to do after a car accident, contact a car accident attorney in your area today by visiting a law firm's site, such as http://www.medilaw.com.
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