New Mexico Car Accident Lawyer Shares Tips on Maximizing Your Car Accident Settlement
Car accidents are unfortunately common occurrences in New Mexico, as in many other places. Getting involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. If you've been hurt in a New Mexico car crash, knowing how to maximize your auto accident settlement is essential. Our skilled Albuquerque car accident lawyers at Keller & Keller can provide expert legal representation to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
There are essential steps to take after a New Mexico car accident that can affect the amount of compensation you receive, such as the following:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a car accident, your health and safety should be your top priority. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, seek immediate medical attention. This is crucial for your well-being and establishes a record of your injuries, which is vital when pursuing a settlement. Delaying medical treatment can raise doubts about the extent and cause of your injuries, potentially weakening your case.
Document the Accident Scene
Document as much as you can at the accident scene if it is safe to do so. You can do this by taking photographs of the vehicles involved, the damage sustained, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gathering this evidence can help reconstruct the accident and establish liability, making it easier to negotiate a favorable settlement.
Notify the Police
Contact the local New Mexico police to report the accident. Their accident report can provide valuable information and serve as an official record of the accident.
Use Caution When Speaking to Insurers
Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters, as your statements may be used against you. Avoid admitting fault or providing too many details until you consult an attorney.
Consult with a New Mexico Car Accident Lawyer
One of the most critical steps in maximizing your New Mexico auto accident settlement is consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you navigate the complex legal processes associated with a car accident while protecting your rights.
How Our New Mexico Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
An experienced Albuquerque car accident lawyer at Keller & Keller will do the following to help maximize your settlement:
Evaluate Your Case
Your attorney will work with you to evaluate the strength of your case. The case evaluation involves gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and calculating damages. It's crucial to account for all your losses, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A thorough case evaluation is essential for determining an appropriate settlement amount to resolve your claim.
Negotiate Effectively
Settlement negotiation is a critical part of maximizing your compensation for damages. Your attorney will engage with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. They will handle all communication, ensuring you don't make any statements that could harm your case.
Be patient during negotiations, as it may take time to reach an agreement. Remember that insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so having legal representation is crucial to level the playing field.
New Mexico's Comparative Negligence Rules
In New Mexico, understanding comparative negligence rules in auto accidents is crucial for drivers involved in a collision. New Mexico follows a pure comparative fault system, which means that each party involved in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions leading up to the crash. This percentage of fault directly affects the compensation they can receive. This system allows for a fair assessment of accident liability, promoting equitable compensation for victims while holding negligent parties accountable for their actions. It's crucial to be aware of these rules when navigating the aftermath of an auto accident to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation. Your car accident lawyer can guide you through this rule and determine the percentage of fault.
