After any accident or injury due to someone else's negligence, you will typically get a call from the other party's insurance carrier. For most people, the idea of talking with the insurance company seems like no big deal. After all, you talk with your own insurance company to file claims sometimes, right? When it comes to a personal injury case, you should avoid talking with the insurance carrier yourself. Understanding some of the most common challenges of working with the insurance company can help you understand why it's best to contact an attorney first.
Claims denial
Insurance carriers do not work for you, and it's financially in their best interest to avoid paying claims when possible. Without legal representation to fight for you, there are risks that the insurance company might simply deny the claim altogether. They might argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or that the policy doesn't cover those types of accidents. An attorney can help ensure that your claim is fairly evaluated and properly processed.
Unreasonable delays
Insurance carriers use a stalling tactic sometimes to discourage claimants in the hope that they will settle for a lower amount just to finally be done with the situation. You might find that your phone calls go unanswered or you get a lot of vague answers about delays and processing times. Your attorney can help push the process along and encourage a settlement.
Unfair settlement offers
The lower the amount the insurance company settles for, the more money they save in the long run. Most insurance carriers start with unreasonably low settlement offers, especially when the claimant is trying to negotiate by themselves. When you work with an attorney, they can help you assess the situation and determine a fair and equitable settlement amount for your situation.
Surveillance
Sometimes, insurance claims adjusters will try to push you into providing recorded statements and even have you followed by a private investigator. These surveillance tactics are typically used in the hopes that you'll say or do something that they can use against you to deny the claim or argue the extent of your injuries. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid talking with the insurance carrier without your attorney. Your attorney will protect your legal rights and help you address any potential surveillance issues.
These are some of the most common challenges you might encounter if you try to negotiate your personal injury claim by yourself. Avoid the hassle of fighting with the insurance company by reaching out to a local personal injury attorney instead.
To learn more, contact a personal injury lawyer near you.
