If you have been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may have already been contacted by the insurance company asking you to settle the case. No matter how tempting this may seem, you should weigh your options carefully, as insurance companies have some secrets that they don’t want you to know – secrets that can hurt you in the long run.
Secret #1
This one probably isn’t much of a surprise – insurance companies want to close cases as quickly as possible and pay as little money as possible. To that end, claims adjusters (insurance company representatives) are always on the lookout for ways to benefit the insurance company, for example, by suggesting that you don’t need the medical treatment that your doctor says you do.
Secret #2
A quick settlement is not always the best way to go. After the trauma of being in an accident and then all the stress that follows, it can be tempting to accept a settlement offer so that you can be done with it. However, this is what the insurance companies are hoping for. You may be setting yourself up for more trouble by accepting the first offer they give you.
Secret #3
Whatever you say will be used against you. When you talk to a claims adjuster, you should know that they are listening carefully for anything that they can use to lessen your compensation or even deny your claim. They may ask you about the accident and the minutes leading up to the accident, the extent of your injuries, and information about any prior claims and medical issues — think carefully before you answer, or even if you should answer. You should also take note that even friendly small talk can be used to harm your case.
Insurance companies work hard to save themselves money. You need someone who is on your side, to make sure you are treated fairly and compensated as you should be. Contact the Atlanta office of attorney Laurie Robbins for help if you’ve been in an accident or have been injured because of someone else’s negligence. Call 404-252-8117 today.