Best Practices for Dealing with Insurance Representatives
When people are injured in an automobile accident they do what is expected of them, file the right paper work, call the insurance agent etc. and expect that in time a settlement will follow.
Claims adjusters use methods simply for the purpose of delaying your initial claim. If the company can, it will do this until the limitations of the laws in your state have expired. Larger companies will try to do this most often.
A claims agent usually will call you very soon after you have been in an accident and you may not be clear head or knowledgeable about your rights in your state. This can leave you very vulnerable and unprotected. In some situations, you may have to file an additional lawsuit falling under first-party bad faith laws.
Once you have been in an automobile or any accident, speaking with an agent from your insurance company or an adjuster is important in helping to determine the most that you may be able to receive in a settlement.
There are a few important tips when talking with your claims adjuster:
1) Do not offer a statement without calling an attorney who specializes in car accidents.
2) Do not sign anything especially if it is a legal paper without asking your lawyer first.
3) Make notes each time you have you engage with any automobile insurance company representatives. Record all dates and any details that are important.
4) The first offer is always the lowest so do not accept it!
5) Stay focused and together whenever you have to talk with claims adjusters.
The time following an automobile accident that has caused you or someone else to be injured is often stressful and can place a financial strain on the injured parties and their families. This is what a claims adjuster looks for so be careful they will try to get you to take settlement for a low amount due to your financial problems etc.
To make sure that you are treated fairly and all your rights are preserved hiring an accident attorney who has experience in litigating automobile accident cases will ensure that you are protected and that you receive an appropriate settlement for your injuries.
Insurance companies and their representatives are only taking care of their profits. An attorney will always put your needs and rights first.