Were you recently injured in a car accident? Do you feel that the other driver's insurance company should pay for your injuries and expenses? If so, the process will likely start with a demand letter. A demand letter is a written document that informs the insurance company that you have suffered injuries and expenses and that you wish for them to compensate you for those damages. The information in your demand letter will influence the rest of the negotiation process, so it's important that you get it right. Here are the three essential components that your letter should include:
A statement of the facts surrounding the accident. The first step in any demand letter is to simply state what happened in the accident. You should state how the accident happened and why the other party is at fault. Be sure to mention any evidence you have that will back up your account, such as video from a traffic camera, a police report, or eyewitness accounts.
Also, in this section, avoid emotional or hyperbolic language. While you may have strong feelings about the accident, the demand letter isn't the place to express them. Stick to the facts. If the other party truly is at fault, then the facts should sufficiently convey that point.
A summary of your injuries and expenses. After stating what happened, you will want to explain how the accident has impacted your life. Start by summarizing your injuries and what kind of treatment was needed. Also list any other expenses you may have incurred, such as lost wages for time away from work, child care, or in-home assistance. Make these expenses clear and list them in a table so they're easy to read.
Also, attach any documentation that supports your claims. Medical bills and doctor reports are helpful. So too are pay stubs, communications with your employer, and receipts for child care and other services.
A demand for payment. Finally, end your letter with a demand for compensation. Explicitly state how much you are seeking in compensation. Remember, it is unlikely that the insurance company will simply agree to your demand. Rather, they'll use it as a starting point for negotiations. That means that you shouldn't hesitate to ask for every dollar to which you feel you're entitled. Don't ask for a lesser amount in the belief that they may find it more agreeable. They'll likely use that lesser amount to start negotiations at a lower point.
For more information, talk to a personal injury law firm likeLaw Office Of Daniel E Goodman. He or she can review the accident and help you craft an effective letter. He or she can then assist you in the negotiations with the insurance company.
