10 Things to Know When You’re Dealing with Insurance Companies
10 Things to Know When You’re Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are good at making you think their job is to help you in times that are difficult. While they provide a very effective and valuable service, they are also a for-profit organization in most cases. If you have suffered an injury, do not assume the insurance company is there to help you. In fact, you need to know these things when it comes to dealing with insurance companies.
Most importantly, remember that you do not have to deal with them on your own after a car accident. At Gattuso & Ciotoli, P.L.L.C., we know how to handle the insurance companies and protect our client’s rights.
#1: Anything You Tell the Insurance Company Can Be Used By Them
Any small bit of information that they can turn around and use against you, they will. Never admit fault or that you are “okay” after an accident. These are all ploys to get you to agree to less compensation.
#2: You Do Not Have to Give a Recorded Statement
Insurance companies may require that you give a recorded statement. During this conversation, they are likely to trick you into making statements that are inaccurate or even profoundly wrong so they can use them against you.
#3: Their Job is Not to Help You But to Limit Your Compensation
Keep this in mind when speaking to insurance adjusters. Their primary goal – and often how well they are paid individually – is based on how much money they can save the insurance company by negotiating a lower settlement for you.
#4: You Do Not Have to Settle Fast
And, often, you should not do so. You should never agree to a settlement right away as you do not know the full extent of your losses. Do not fall for their push to get you to settle in a short timeframe.
#5: Working with an attorney will not change your settlement eligibility
Some insurance companies may claim that working with an attorney could lower their willingness to give you a fair settlement. The opposite is likely what is going to happen.
#6: Do Not Sign a Liability Waiver
If you sign a liability waiver, that means that you are agreeing to the settlement provided to you. This closes your case, and it is not possible for you to reopen it to obtain more compensation.
#7: You Do Not Have to Settle Your Case
If the insurance company simply does not provide a fair settlement, you can stop negotiating and go to trial.
#8: You Do Not Have to Talk to Them Alone
You can and should have an attorney helping you to navigate this legal process. That is ultimately what is going to protect your compensation.
#9: You Do Not Always Have to Provide Your Medical Record
Your medical record may be used against you. However, it is not always required that you provide that information. Do not assume you have to provide the insurance company with everything they ask.
#10: You Should Never Accept the First Settlement Offer
Typically, this offer is low, and they often want you to accept it so you can move on and save money.
Before you do anything, contact our legal team at Gattuso & Ciotoli, P.L.L.C. Let us provide you with a free consultation so you can learn your rights.