Personal Injury Law

Settling a Property Damage Claim After a Virginia Car Accident

By Ben Glass

There is so much confusion following a Virginia car accident. When injuries are involved, it is even more overwhelming. How do you know what steps to take and which to avoid?

Can I get my car repaired?
One of the frequent questions we receive from our clients is – should I settle my property damage case, if I have been injured? For the most part, the answer is 'yes.' It is okay to settle your property damage claim, whether that means you get your car repaired or the insurance company decides it is totaled. A property damage settlement should not affect your personal injury case, as these are two different claims.

Therefore, go ahead and get your car fixed or accept a check from the insurance company. You can also sign a release form, as long as it is only for the property damage claim and not your personal injury case.

Should I give a recorded statement?
The property damage question is not the only one we hear from our clients. One of the other common questions is – should I give a recorded statement? The answer is almost always 'no,' as a recorded statement could seriously impact your Virginia car accident claim. The insurance adjuster will be looking to catch you on record saying something that would either minimize their liability or ruin your case all together.

For more information, watch our informative video, Can I Settle My Property Damage Claim With the Insurance Company?

Full post as published by Northern Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer on March 03, 2011 (boomark / email).