Insurance adjusters are predatory and will do everything they can to minimize your insurance claim. These individuals work with one goal in mind: paying out as little money as possible. Listed below is important information to know before speaking with an insurance adjuster to avoid
What Not to Say to Your Insurance Company after an Auto Accident
Anything . . . Right After an Accident
Avoid notifying your insurance company immediately after an accident. You may be in shock, confused or under a great deal of stress. Take care of your medical needs first and protecting your legal interests. Then you can concentrate on contacting the insurance company. Remember that you and the insurance company have very different objectives. The insurance company is seeking to close the case as quickly as possible for as little as possible while your objective is to receive the maximum amount of compensation available for your claim.
It Was My Fault
Avoid admitting fault for the accident. When you do describe the accident, do so in a matter of fact manner without adding personal opinions into the mix. The insurance companies can work it out between them who was at fault for the accident. There may be factors involved that you are not aware of, such as faulty vehicle parts, a distracted driver or a traffic sign that is difficult to see. Even if you are found at fault, the other driver may have also contributed to the accident and also be at fault. Avoid making an admission of fault in front of the other driver, law enforcement or your insurance company as these statements may later be used against you.
I’m Not Injured
Avoid making any declarations that you do not know are absolutely true. While some injuries are readily apparent, many are not. You may not know that you are suffering from internal bleeding or a brain injury. Bruises and other indicators of injury may take time to manifest. Your neck or back may begin hurting days later. If you do experience pain, get it checked out by a healthcare provider. Avoid signing any medical release form from the insurance company until you have been properly advised by an attorney.
This Is My Official Statement
Avoid giving an official statement that is recorded until you have been advised by a personal injury attorney. You are not under an obligation to have your statement recorded. What you say may be taken out of context or misconstrued by the insurance company until it is manipulated to serve their objective.
I Think . . .
If you do not know a factual answer to provide, it is fine to say “I don’t know.” Do not estimate or opine an answer. This may apply to the speed you were driving, distance calculations or other estimates. Simply avoid making such estimates.
Names of Others
Stick to the basics when dealing with your insurance company. Avoid giving them names of family members, friends or doctors. If you wind up in litigation, you may be asked to provide information about anything you told these individuals and their contact information.
I Accept
Most initial settlement offers from insurance companies are low ball offers. While you may have mounting medical bills and are losing wages while off work, avoid accepting a settlement offer that does not fully compensate you for your injuries. Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney before taking any settlements so that he or she can advocate on your behalf and negotiate a fair settlement.
I Don’t Have a Lawyer
When you retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney, the insurance company is more likely to give your claim greater respect and attention. A personal injury lawyer often has more experience than a layperson in laws regulating insurance companies and in estimating the true value of a claim so that present and future damages are taken into consideration. In addition to property damage, lost wages while you were recovering and property damage, damages may include loss of future earning potential, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium and pain and suffering.
Legal Assistance
When dealing with insurance companies, it is important that you tell the truth and do not lie. However, sometimes individuals may overindulge information that is only used to negatively affect them and their claim. Discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer and ask for specific advice regarding statements that you should make to the insurance company.
Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident in Houston?
Have you been injured in a car accident and are now trying to navigate the claims process on your own? Working with a knowledgeable attorney can make it much easier to file a claim. Not only can your attorney talk to an insurance adjuster on your behalf, they work with you throughout the entire personal injury claim process. Call us today for a free consultation so that we can collect basic information that allows us to tell you how we can help. We proudly serve clients on a contingency basis, meaning you owe nothing upfront.
Spanish Speaking Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
Spanish-speaking individuals can have a more difficult time seeking justice in their personal injury cases due to language barriers. This causes them to not take action against those who have left them with financial devastation and physical trauma. At the Law Office of Beverly R. Caruthers, our team refuses to let a language barrier affect your right to justice and compensation. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and is in need of Spanish-speaking legal advice, our team is here for you.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident and suffered an injury, experienced loss of income, or are unable to work due to a car accident, you can benefit from the services of a Houston car accident expert in your personal injury case. Whether you missed work due to an injury or due to not having access to a vehicle, Attorney Beverly R. Caruthers can help you!
Beverly R Caruthers Law Office
Address: 4141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 620
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 526-9557
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