Insurance companies do not use catchy jingles and promise savings to give people a break. They are only interested in getting more customers and making more money. Since these companies lose money every time they pay claims, their lawyers will do almost anything to avoid such outcomes.
These tactics confuse a lot of people, so many individuals believe that the insurance company really is “on their side.” But in a serious injury car crash, the medical bills alone can exceed $100,000. Overall, the damages could be much, much higher. Since so much is at stake, insurance company lawyers often redouble their efforts to fight these claims. Therefore, crash victims need to fight as well. Better still, injury accident victims should partner with attorneys who will level the playing field.
Do Not Talk to the Insurance Company At All
Somewhere along the line, people got the idea that they should give a statement to the insurance company after an accident. But there is no legal obligation to do so. And, such a move could seriously damage a future claim for compensation.
Insurance company claims adjusters sound friendly over the phone. But the accident claims process is adversarial by design, and that contest begins as soon as the dust settles from the collision. Specifically, telephone adjusters know how to extract damaging information from victims without them even knowing it. Insurance company lawyers will happily use this information in court later on.
Watch What You Say to Others
Friends and family members obviously want to stay abreast of a loved one’s medical status, so feel free to update them as needed. These individuals, and others as well, might also want to know details about the accident.
Do not tell the complete story over and over. That kind of repetition erodes memory. Instead, consider posting a brief blog on social media and then directing people to that blog. Have an attorney review this post before it goes live. Once something goes out into cyberspace, it’s pretty much impossible to take it back.
Be even more careful with statements made to the other driver. For example, never say “I’m sorry.” That sentiment could be construed as an admission of liability. And that’s exactly what insurance company lawyers will do. Instead, say something like “What can I do to help?” or “I’m sorry for what happened to you.”
Partner with an Attorney
As mentioned, a lawyer is the best way to ensure fair compensation in these cases. It’s hard enough to recover from injuries and go on with life. Fighting the insurance company is an additional burden that no one needs to assume.
Lawyers know how to collect evidence in these cases. They can quickly obtain medical and other records that it might take individuals weeks or months to retrieve. Furthermore, attorneys can preserve the vehicle’s “black box” recorder, which is called the Event Data Recorder. The EDR stores numbers like vehicle speed and engine RPM. A lawyer prevents the insurance company from “accidentally” destroying this vital evidence.
Finally, attorneys give families solid legal advice during this period. If victims do not know where to turn, experienced attorneys can guide them in the right direction.
