As we all know, insurance companies are not your friend. They make their money by offering protection to individuals in the event of an accident or injury but do not profit from paying out on accident claims. If you have been involved in a car accident, you can expect your insurance company or the insurance company for the at-fault driver to attempt to save as much money as possible. Usually they will offer a settlement that is much less than the full value of your claim, delay your claim as long as possible, deny you coverage, or in some cases, use intimidation tactics to get you to accept a settlement that only covers physical damages.
It does not matter what coverage you believe you have, nor how much your insurer tries to get you to believe they are working with your best interests in mind. The goal of many insurance company is to keep payouts at a minimum.
Do not be fooled by an insurance company’s kindness or helpful nature; your insurer is not on your side. If you want to maximize the value of your claim, you need to retain qualified legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. The Law Offices of Norman Gershon has a long track record of success, as you can see by our results, and we are more than qualified to help you deal with insurance companies after an accident. We are also committed to fighting to help you negotiate a fair and just settlement.
Here are Six Tips To Help You Deal With An Insurance Company After A Car Accident:
1. Gather as Much Evidence As You Can
The evidence you are able to gather following an accident will play an important role in substantiating your claim. It is understood that the severity of your accident will directly affect this step, but if it’s possible take pictures, make notes, and try to document every aspect of your accident. This will significantly increase your chances of being able to prove fault.
2. Keep Strict Records Of Everything
Keep strict records of every accident-related transaction and communication between you and your insurance company. Keep copies of medical records, diagnoses, doctor recommendations, repair estimates, the police report, and any other documentation or evidence relating to your accident. Even when you file a claim with your insurance company, keep copies of everything so you have a complete record.
3. Communicate Clearly And Minimally With The Insurance Company
What you say to your insurance company or its adjuster when filing a claim can be used against you to deny coverage, reduce the value of your claim or prove your negligence. It is important you communicate clearly in each conservation you have with your insurer. Do not admit fault. Do not make accusations. Provide the facts of the accident and details. Other questions or information for which you are not prepared to provide should be referred to your attorney.
4. Do Not Give A Recorded Statement To The Insurance Company
Insurance companies will tell you that is is routine to give a recorded statement to them. There is a reason for that. They want to record you because they will try to get you to say something that will hurt the value of your claim. It’s an unfair fight; insurance adjusters are trained in obtaining recorded statements, whereas you are not trained to give one. That’s why it’s best to have an attorney handle this for you. Stay away from these like the plague.
5. Do Not Settle Your Claim Too Quickly
People sometimes assume they will recover from their injuries, and then they end up agreeing to a small settlement based on that assumption. However, we don’t always fully heal exactly as expected. If your injury becomes chronic there’s nothing that can be done. You’ve already settled and even though you have more medical bills, you end up having to pay all those yourself. Your patience might be your most valuable weapon when it comes to settling personal injury claims.
6. Retain Experienced Legal Counsel To Find The True Value Of Your Claim
Do you have questions about your accident or any problems with an insurance claim? Have you or a loved one been been injured in an auto accident? Did you or a loved one suffer from any catastrophic injuries that could disable you for life? Are you curious about how to maximize your potential recovery? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you should consider speaking with a proven, experienced car accident attorney today. Contact the Law Office of Norman Gershon for immediate legal assistance after your accident. Some things are better left for the experts. Tackling a personal injury case without legal counsel is never recommended. We will work hard for you, not the insurance companies. We will answer your questions and help you every step on your road to recovery.
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