Dealing with the insurance company can be one of the most daunting experiences. Some might say it is even worse than dealing with your accidental injuries! This is due to the mental exhaustion they can cause by trying to devalue your claim and asking for more evidence.
Due to insurance adjusters’ nature of using tactics to get information out of victims and twist their words, it is highly advisable to hire an attorney before speaking to them. To seek legal help, click here.
Tips for dealing with the insurance company following an accident.
- Do not delay filing.
Do not delay filing your insurance claim after a car accident. While the statute of limitation in some states is four years from the date of the accident, there are some other factors to consider for not delaying the claim.
Filing an insurance claim can cause difficulty in tracking down witnesses, and they may have forgotten the details about the accident. Also, any footage from the CCTV camera may also have been erased. Therefore, avoid delaying and file your claim as soon as possible.
- Never admit your fault.
If you caused the accident or you contributed to the accident, avoid admitting your fault. Think twice before giving any statement. If the insurance provider catches you saying anything that shows you were at fault for the accident, you may nullify your chances of getting any compensation or recovering settlement. Anything you say can be used against you in the court. Therefore, speak carefully and never admit your fault.
- Do not settle too quickly.
Insurance companies are always in a hurry to settle the case. They only see their benefit, and to save their money, they will initially offer you the lowest settlement offer possible. Many victims think that at least they are getting the compensation and do not negotiate with the insurance company.
However, it is important to know that the initial offer is only the starting point of your negotiation. Do not settle too quickly. If you are having a hard time negotiating with the insurance company for your damages, it is highly recommended to seek help from an experienced personal injury lawyer.
- Take photos of the crash scene.
Within a few minutes after your car accident, the scene will start changing. Move away at a safe distance from the crash scene and take photos of the scene of the accident if possible. Make sure to record all the damages to your car, injuries sustained, any obstacles or debris on the road, road hazards, skid marks, etc.
Having photo evidence of the accident and injuries will help you strengthen your claim and get you the right compensation for your damages and injuries.
If you or your loved ones have been involved in a car crash, speak to an attorney to know your available options today!
