ICBC SETTLEMENT - BEATING THE INSURANCE COMPANY
Insurance companies are often more interested in protecting their bottom line than in providing you adequate compensation. We recently recovered $600,000 for a client who's insurance claim was denied by the insurance company.
It is important you record the personal information of each of the witness to the car accident as your case may depend upon their evidence to succeed.
You should write down the names and addresses of each witness and ask them what they saw, making notes of any key phrases such as "speeding" or "ran the light".
If you are injured, you should see your doctor as soon as possible after the car accident.
You should follow your doctor's advice, if any physical therapy is recommended otherwise you could be accused of failing to reduce your losses.
If you fail to see your doctor or follow-up with your doctor it would be reasonable for a judge or jury to ask, "If your client is truly hurt, why did he wait so long to see a doctor?" or, "If your client was hurt so badly why did he only see his doctor twice?"
You should take photos of your car and of the scene of the car accident if possible. These car accident photos should include any skid marks left on the road as well as all traffic signs and signals.
You should also take pictures of your injuries caused by the car accident before they heal including bruises, cuts, abrasions as well as any swelling or other irregularity.
You should keep notes about your injuries and record the many ways the injury has affected your life including your work life and home life, your hobbies and other events or interests.
The ICBC adjuster will ask for proof of anything you claim as an expense so be sure to keep your receipts. These expenses include user fees for any physical therapy, prescription medication receipts, bus or taxi fares to and from medical treatment amongst others.
Be aware it is not uncommon for insurance companies to film those who are claiming injuries.