An unfortunate truth is that even if you’ve been loyal to your insurance company and never missed a premium payment, it does not want what is best for you. Insurance companies operate for profit. This means when insurance companies process claims, their aim is to minimize the payouts they send to claimants as much as possible. Be on the lookout for common tactics insurance providers use to protect your legal rights during a Laredo car accident claim.
Doubting Your Injuries
An insurance company may try to reject your claim by doubting your injuries. The insurer may argue that your injuries were pre-existing, for example, or were caused by something other than the car accident. You can help prevent this issue by getting medical care immediately after your collision to connect your injuries with the accident.
An insurer may also attempt to reduce the value of your claim by underplaying the severity of your car accident injuries. It is especially common in cases involving serious and catastrophic injuries, as these are generally worth more money in pain and suffering and future foreseeable damages. You can establish the extent and level of your injuries by providing your medical records and creating an injury journal detailing your experiences.
Shifting the Blame to You
If an insurance company can’t argue against your injuries, it may try to shift liability (legal and financial responsibility) for the car accident onto someone else, including you. This is why it is critical not to apologize to the other driver or admit fault after a car accident.
You also should not give a recorded statement to an insurance company if asked. The recorded statement is a tool used to twist your words around and use them against you later. Finally, stay off social media. Things you post could be used to try to blame you for the accident or devalue your losses.
Creating Unnecessary Delays
Insurance companies take advantage of the fact that car accident victims are often overwhelmed, stressed from the crash, and eager to reach a fast settlement. They may weaponize this to convince claimants to accept inadequate settlement offers after intentionally delaying the claims process.
An insurer can create unnecessary delays while processing a claim to frustrate the claimant to the point that he or she will instantly accept the first settlement that’s finally offered. It’s important to have patience and wait to accept a settlement until you are sure it’s a fair amount.
Offering a Low Initial Settlement
Initial settlement offers from insurance providers are almost always less than the true value of a car accident claim. This is intentional, as the insurance company knows most claimants do not realize they have the right to negotiate for a higher value. As a general rule, you should not accept the first settlement until you have consulted with an Oklahoma City car accident lawyer.
Insurance claims adjusters can sound friendly and supportive, like they are on your side. They may use misleading communications, such as “This is our best and final offer.” This is not true. The insurer may also try to pressure you into accepting a settlement offer without contacting a lawyer first. Remind yourself that the insurer is not protecting your interests. Do not accept until speaking to an attorney.