Car Accident Arbitration Tips

A car accident arbitration is useful in selling auto insurance claims where the accident victim believes the insurance company's offer is low and the insurance company believes the victim is asking for too much. In this case, you need an independent arbitrator to help you negotiate an acceptable settlement. Use the following tips to succeed in your arbitration:

Plan for It Well

Although arbitration is not a trial, you still need to prepare for it thoroughly because you still need to convince the other party of your stance. This means you need to have the evidence ready and sort all the documents you may need during the meeting. Your lawyer should also help you craft your opening and closing statements to ensure that they are persuasive enough to have an impact on the process.

Don't Exaggerate, Stick To Facts

Don't be misled by what you see in the movies or serialized legal drama; grandiose stories or anecdotes won't help you here. Stick to the facts as best as you know them without lying or exaggerating your claims. You want to come across as an honest and clear-headed victim and not someone who is out to make a killing in the name of winning an accident claim. Besides, you expect the insurance company to carry out their own investigations, which means your exaggerated claims (if you do make some) can easily be unearthed.

Anticipate the Insurance Company's Arguments

One of the best ways of preparing for a trial, and arbitration is like an informal version of an accident trial, is to anticipate what the other party is going to use in their arguments. You have probably heard some contact with the insurance adjuster or representatives, and you have heard some of their claims. Maybe they are claiming that you contributed to the accident by going over the speed limit or that your injuries couldn't possibly have been as severe as what you are claiming. You can also brainstorm with your lawyer to learn more about the opposing side's possible stance. Use the information to come up with counterarguments for them.

Arm Yourself with Visual Aids and Exhibits

Lastly, you should not just rely on your words alone to get what you deserve, visual aids such as exhibits, pictures, and videos will come in handy during your presentation. This is because visuals tend to leave lasting impressions on viewers more than words. For example, pictures of your crashed windshield and bloody clothing will strengthen your injury claims.

It is common, and even advisable, to have a lawyer on your corner during arbitration. The insurance company will certainly have one working for them, so you shouldn't face them without consulting an injury lawyer, such as Gary L Baker Attorney at Law , of your own.


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