Dealing with insurance claims after an accident can be a confusing process, and there are many pieces to this big puzzle. Often we don’t feel that we are in the right kind of position to ask the kind of questions that will give the answers we need in order to understand how it all works. One of the areas that we don’t understand, unless someone explains it to us, is the role of the auto insurance claim adjuster.

The Auto Insurance Claims Adjuster

This is an important part of the process, and it is the job of the adjuster to help assess the damages of the accident. They are sent on behalf of the insurance company that you are filing the claim with. The goal of the auto insurance claim adjuster is to evaluate cases and offer a fair settlement when and if it’s deemed that their party is at fault. They establish how much money will be needed to address the damages, and it will be their job to check out what has happened in the accident, contact auto repair stores, and make estimates and assessments as to how much the labor and parts will cost.

When you send in a claim, the automobile insurance company will contact a claim adjuster who will come and talk to you and get information about where your vehicle is located, and what kind of damages have been done. The vehicle will be written off if the total cost of the damages are higher then what the value of the vehicle is.

It is important to understand that the amount you will get from your insurance claim depends upon what you have for an actual policy. Often if the total damages of the vehicle exceed the cost of the automobile then the company will likely pay you the book value of what that vehicle is worth.

The amount that the insurance company actually pays depends upon a particular process that the insurance claim adjuster goes through. Often you will get two quotes for a claim, one that covers the repairs done at a shop, and another for a cash amount. Because many people know somebody that they can hire who can do the repairs for less than the amount offered, people will often choose the lower cash figure.

When it comes to making the right decision in any kind of car accident case, contacting an experienced Albuquerque personal injury lawyer like Andras Szantho is a critical step. Not only does he have a tremendous amount of experience in handling these kinds of cases, consultation is free and he doesn’t get paid unless you do.

 First Things First: Take Care Of Yourself

First and foremost, make sure that you get treatment from a qualified doctor as quickly as possible. It doesn’t matter what kind of legal circumstance is involved in your accident, although it may be frightening, your first priority needs to be to take care of yourself and this means ensuring that you seek proper medical attention. You cannot resolve a legal issue if you are not physically able to due to failing to get the proper medical help that you need.

Second: Recognize The Many Benefits Of Having Legal Assistance

Once you have sought any necessary medical attention and have collected yourself, then the next important step is to contact legal help. If you are not at fault, it is important to contact a reliable and experienced lawyer, such as the Szantho Law Firm. This should be done as quickly as you can so that you have your lawyer’s knowledgeable assistance to guide you through what is coming. For example, it isn’t uncommon for the responsible party’s insurance company to be aggressive in their own attempt to settle the claim. They may try and pressure you to take a quick payoff, and the unfortunate reality is many people are put in a difficult situation because of this.

In addition to fighting against the pressure of insurance companies, there are many other reasons why retaining an attorney as early as possible will work for your advantage. When dealing with the legal side to your accident, particularly when you have been injured, there are many things that need to be done that an attorney can do on your behalf. It is necessary to acquire the initial police report, notice of claim, and submit to receive no-fault benefits. You may even have a potential claim against a municipality and there is a time limit for how long you have to file the proper paperwork for that as well.

Unfortunately, insurance claim adjusters or the other parties’ lawyer can seem accusatory and untrusting when interviewing you. Culpability and intense questions can be confusing and are often meant to bring forward any weakness on your side. In the worst cases, your words can be turned around and manipulated, changing the meaning and intention of what you say. On the other hand, when working with your seasoned lawyer, he will prepare you well for such interviews, avoid them when possible, and help the conversation stay fair and honest.

There are many actions that need to be taken in a short amount of time when you are the victim of an accident. Knowing your way through the process can be a serious challenge, and one that unrepresented people often lose or get short-handed on. Having an expert lawyer who will treat you as a person, not a pawn, and who will take the time to walk you through this difficult experience is crucial. The Szantho Law Firm can make this a smooth process as opposed to one which leaves you hurt, injured and uncompensated. Mr. Andras Szantho, the head of the firm, is someone who is not only through and determined, but he is truly compassionate and caring with clients.

An accident can be a challenging event itself, and making the right decisions about what to do about it can be equally difficult. This is why talking to someone who is there to help you will ensure you make well-informed and wise decisions through an experience that is often disturbing and even traumatic. There are times that you may be tempted to take a settlement offered by an insurance adjuster, but there are other options that can better assure that you receive the compensation that you truly deserve.

First, an understanding of your rights and how the law works is the key to everything. If you have never been involved in an automobile accident or personal injury before, you may not understand the options before you. You may want to pursue legal action; however it is important to understand if you have legal grounds for a claim. Contacting the Szantho Law Firm can provide a free consultation to help you here. After all, whether you pursue legal action or not, how do you know what would be fair compensation to you and how to take the steps to collect this?

When attempting to negotiate with an insurance company people often believe that if things fail to move forward, then the only next viable option is to go to trial. However, there are less time consuming and inexpensive ways, such as mediation and arbitration, which your dependable lawyer can help you with.

Save Time, Heartache & Maximize Your Just Claim

A trustworthy and knowledgeable lawyer, such as Mr. Andras Szantho, has years of experience working with the legal system, adjusters, and insurance companies. He understands the tricks that others use against victims and he is well versed in his ability to help you through the process to arrive at a fair settlement. Based on the Insurance Research Council, victims who utilize the assistance of a lawyer often receive settlements that are greater than those who choose not to.

This is because, unlike a lawyer, most people don’t have the same understanding of our legal rights, of appropriate compensations or how to handle things like mediation.

 No Reason Not To Call

If your loyal and sharp lawyer can save you the hassle of handling the insurance calls, of submitting any necessary legal documents and take you through this process efficiently and elegantly, then why not call?

A just lawyer, such as Mr. Szantho, offers you two additional benefits. First, he is truly on your side. The Szantho Law Firm is known for its aggressive representation of clients before insurance adjustors and their personal attention and care with you.

Second, another important thing to consider is that there are no fees involved if you do not win the case. The Szantho Law Firm understands that when you are injured through the fault of another, you are already experiencing plenty of difficulties and need to take care of yourself, including any possible lost wages. In facilitating things for you and easing your experience, the Szantho Law Firm is working for you and only benefits financially when you do.

Your time is valuable, and it is of the upmost importance that you are represented in the most comprehensive way possible. That is why we work with you and the insurance companies to ensure that you get the best results possible.

With the help of the Szantho Law Firm you can find peace and comfort in knowing that you have a caring, but powerful force working on your side, even after the terrible experience of a personal injury or accident.

Before leaving the house, it is a good idea to put together a car safety kit. This includes the necessary items you might find yourself needing in the event that you are stranded on the side of the road, or you have to wait for assistance. Recommended items would be things such as a blanket, first aid kit, ice scraper and gloves. It is also a good idea to include jumper cables, a flash light, a portable radio and extra batteries. In addition to these items try and include some non-perishable eatables such as peanuts or granola bars. One of the main items to remember is sufficient water.

Secondly, it is extremely important before going on any trip of length to have your vehicle checked out. Make sure that the tires are properly inflated, your fluid levels are good, and you not only have a spare but also the equipment necessary to change it. Some people also suggest including a can of fix-a-flat to make sure you are covered in case of an emergency.

Third, as you are traveling take into account that there will likely be delays. To avoid the aggravation and stress that this can sometimes cause, it is recommended that you take it slow and start as early as you can. The more time you allow yourself for the trip, the easier a time you will have and you will be more likely to avoid accidents. Another stressor is distractions, and a great way to avoid accidents is to put down the cell phone, let someone else handle the radio, and make frequent stops if you need to address any issues you might have. Many people have been severely injured by drivers who are simply reaching behind them for a second. Don’t let this happen to you. The extra time it might take is moments you wouldn’t have if you are killed trying to achieve whatever it is that you are attempting to do.

Lastly, one of the most frustrating parts of a trip is not knowing anything about the area you are traveling to. It can be hard to gauge the best routes by simply looking at a map. The truth is you may not have to. Many people these days have smart phones and there are many ways to check services and businesses online. Utilize services such as Yelp or the better Business Bureau to help give you advice. The BBB also offers an app for the iPhone that can easily assist you in this task.

Overall it is important that you are prepared, take your time, and get informed. Following these steps can help avoid some potential disasters and elevate some stress that comes with the typical holiday experience. Unfortunately no matter how prepared you are, accidents can still happen. If anything unfortunate should take place, remember that the professional experts at the Szanthos Law Firm can help you through any difficult legal waters. Call (505) 820-3366 for a free consultation.

Have a wonderful and happy holiday season!

What are punitive damages?

When you are involved in an accident, or you have been injured in some capacity, it can be a frustrating and challenging experience. Albuquerque personal injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho knows that not only can this be a difficult experience, but it can also take a lasting toll and it is something that you don’t want anyone else to have to experience. That is why there are steps that you should consider to protect yourself and others.

Punitive damages are, unfortunately, one aspect to the law that is often misunderstood. These awards are typically designed more as a way of deterring rather than an attempt to correct. In many cases the law will work to fix a situation that has occurred. This would include having the defendant pay for damages that might have taken place. However, the other side to this is that there are also deterrents set in place to ensure that the event does not happen to someone else, and this comes in the form of punitive damages.

There is no statutory limit in New Mexico as to the amount of punitive damages a plaintiff may request. Nevertheless, in order to obtain punitive damages under New Mexico law, a defendant must be shown to have a culpable mental state and their behavior must be shown to be willful, wanton, malicious, reckless, oppressive, or fraudulent.

Although they are not always awarded in civil trials, a plaintiff can file suit against someone for causing injury to them, whether or not there was intent. New Mexico tort law allows for the recovery of losses for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of wages, and medical expenses.

How much the plaintiff suffered as a result of this event is the deciding factor in how the damages are determined. Also taken in to consideration is what may be required for the individual to return back to their previous state prior to the incident. The important thing to remember is that punitive damages are not awarded to the plaintiff, they are designed to serve as a deterrent to curb future harm.

A prime example of how this may work is if an individual was injured in a store because of negligence on the part of the establishment. If the store knew that it had a light that was damaged and was a potential falling hazard, however failed to do anything about it, they could be held accountable. If the light fell and a customer suffered $1200 in damages, paying that cost for this business may not have much of a deterring effect regarding future potential negligence. However, it the company was required to pay $100,000 in punitive damages, this may cause them to seriously rethink their focus on customer safety.

New Mexico state law varies on punitive damages and in some cases excludes them. To find out if your case qualifies for punitive damages, contact the experts at the Szanthos Law Firm. Personal Injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho has years of experience representing individuals from all over Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Call (505) 820-3366 for a free consultation.

Szantho Law Firm helps you understand how to handle the other driver’s insurance company offering you money after an accident.

Consider This Important Fact:

One of society’s biggest costs comes from motor vehicle accidents. These crashes cost us approximately $4,900 per second, or an estimated $30,000 during the time it takes to read this statistic. Although making sure that you are driving responsibly is the best way to avoid an automobile accident, the unfortunate reality is that we are not in control of, nor responsible for, the driving of others.

New vehicle sales are up 10% from 2010, with over 13 million new cars adding to the already massive numbers of vehicles currently on the road. With more vehicles hitting the pavement each and every year the chances are constantly increasing that you may become involved in an accident. If this occurs there are several situations that can arise, which will be challenging to deal with. For example, you may get involved in an accident with someone who may not have insurance. Or you may be confronted with having to make a choice about options if you are involved with someone who has an insurance company that wants to offer you money to settle out of court.

Szantho Law: Aggressive Representation – Personal Attention In Your Personal Injury Case

If you don’t have an attorney, know that there are people who are knowledgeable and care about your welfare that are available to help you through such issues. This includes experienced individuals like Santa Fe personal injury attorney Szantho Law. Don’t let someone bully you or make you feel like you have limited options, especially when you can benefit from aggressive representation that can handle such forceful insurance agents. Insurance companies will often attempt to settle these cases for a decreased amount and the most important thing to do is to keep from doing anything spontaneous or brash. Don’t agree to anything verbally or sign any documents before first talking to a knowledgeable attorney. If you accept a check from an insurance company you might be forfeiting rightful further compensation that would otherwise be entitled to you.

According to the 2005 Civil Justice Survey of State Courts, of the 14,170 vehicle accident related trials the median award for damages was $28,000. Motor vehicle accidents are more common, making up nearly 35% of cases in 2005. Statistically, plaintiffs with a good case have a high probability of winning these lawsuits, so it is important to know that you do not have to make a decision right then. Simply tell the insurance company you will get back to them and contact an attorney, such as personal injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho, who provides you a free, personal consultation.

Szantho Law knows how to handle insurance companies fairly, and can manage reluctant or difficult insurance companies for you. At the same time, at Szantho Law the professional staff is sensitive to your experience and is personable with all clients. Mr. Andras Szantho himself is a compassionate and devoted personal injury lawyer who goes out of his way to offer clients aggressive representation before insurance agents. His free consultation can help you make a better and more educated decision about what you want and feel you should do.

For more information about personal injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho, or to schedule a free consultation, call him at (505) 820-3366 or visit him online at www.szantholaw.com.

You may have heard the old saying that the most dangerous part about flying is the car ride to the airport. In many ways this is unfortunately a true statement. Each year there are an estimated 6 million automobile accidents in the United States. These accidents cause over 3 million actual injuries with as many as 2 million of them resulting in life long or permanent issues. Sadly nearly 40,000 people in the US die as a result of an automobile accident.

When we think of personal injury, car accidents are often the first thing that comes to mind, however the cause is virtually unlimited. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are currently the second most likely accident to occur with an elderly person. Such accidents are treated every 18 seconds for fall related injuries, and every 35 minutes there is a death. The leading cause of non-fatal injuries for children under the age of 19 are falls, and as many as 8,000 children a day are treated in an emergency room as a result.

Among the top most preventable personal injuries are those that come from dog bites. Remarkably the CDC states that as many as 4.7 million people a year are bitten by dogs and 800,000 will have to seek medical treatment for these injuries.

Personal injury comes simply as the result of a person doing, or failing to do something, which causes physical harm to another. These are often circumstances that were unnecessary, preventable, or not the fault of the victim. We each have rights, and when this occurs you need a Santa Fe personal injury lawyer that can help you find fair resolution and compensation.

But how much money can you expect to be paid in a settlement? The truth is there are a lot of factors to consider and each case is unique involving a variety of considerations. Often the amount of a settlement varies depending upon these circumstances and you can get an idea based upon your own unique situation by contacting Santa fe and Albuquerque injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho. Mr. Szantho offers free consultations to give you a good general idea as to what you can expect from your individual case.

Keep in mind that all settlements vary, but Mr. Szantho completely dedicates himself to his client, taking ever necessary to help make the process as smooth as possible for you and your family. The experiences surrounding personal injury can already be traumatic and trying enough, and as an experienced and passionate lawyer, Mr. Szantho wants to help you reach a settlement without added stress or cost, so that you can focus on your efforts on recovery. Mr. Szantho doesn’t collect money until your case settles.

To learn more about Santa Fe and Albuquerque injury lawyer Mr. Andras Szantho and the services he offers, or to set up a free consultation call his offices at (505) 820-3366 or visit him online at www.szantholaw.com.

Santa Fe injury lawyer Andras Szantho

After facing racketeering and two larceny charges, a possible 12.5 year prison sentence, former Espanola police officer Gabe Gonzales had all charges dropped during a jury trial in Santa Fe District Court on September 13th. Through the diligent work of Santa Fe injury lawyer Andras Szantho, closure finally was brought after two and a half years of big conspiracies and the State failing to present reasonable evidence.

Santa Fe injury lawyer Szantho, began representing Gonzales after he was charged over two years ago when the city of Española was embroiled in a terrible financial scandal.

This event included alleged embezzlement involving two ex-finance employees and three former police officers. The charges claimed that the individuals had embezzled over $100,000 of city money from 2007 to 2009. According to the claims made by the state each of the accused had allegedly received extra pay from the city.

Although nearly all of the accused had initially pleaded not guilty the state had dropped all charges against the former city employees. Gonzales and former officer Josie Lujan were still facing charges as of September 13th, with their Santa Fe injury lawyer fighting to show that there was no physical evidence to collaborate the states claims. Lujan, who was facing 11 charges, plead guilty in the end and was sentenced to five years probation. She could have been sentenced to a staggering 32 years in prison, but now has received the lesser punishment and will be required to repay the city $86,000.

Santa Fe injury lawyer Szantho, who has over eight years experience as a Santa Fe injury lawyer, worked hard to establish that his client did not commit a criminal act.

It was determined that Gonzalez would not suffer the same fate as Lujan. Assistant District Attorney JoHanna Cox claimed that Lujan and former officer Trudy Gallegos had allegedly conspired a plan to take additional paychecks and direct deposits from the city, and Gonzales had allegedly stood to also benefited from this act. Despite the extraordinary charges the prosecution was not able to present any kind of physical evidence that such a conspiracy took place, or that there was one connecting Gallegos and Lujan to Gonzales. Santa Fe injury lawyer Andras Szantho conclusively showed that the state could not demonstrate Gonzales knowingly took extra pay, and there can be no punishment if there is no crime.

Without reasonable evidence Santa Fe injury lawyer Szantho moved to have a direct verdict. This can occur when a judge makes the decision that a jury can only make a verdict in one particular direction. Visiting Judge Thomas Hynes, of the 11th Judical District in Aztec, stated that the District Attoney’s Office could not find any substantial evidence that would find Gonzales guilty, and as such the case should be tossed out.

Cory Lewis, Española District 4 City Councilor, indicated that he was pleased that the case was finally put to rest, and went on to say that the officers involved where good and assets important to the city.

Through the efforts of Santa Fe injury lawyer Andras Szantho, Gonzalez can now begin to put this difficult chapter behind him and start rebuilding his life.