Why Injured Parties End up Settling for Less Than Their Case Is Worth
You have been injured in an accident and have medical bills piling up. The first question that comes to mind is who is going to pay for your losses? Many times, claims start with either your own insurance company or the other party’s, but how do you know that you are getting a fair settlement?
At Bishop & Hayes, we know how insurance companies work. Our trial lawyers fight hard to get injured parties the full compensation they deserve after an accident. We are not afraid to hold insurance companies accountable, ensuring our clients receive the maximum recovery for their injuries. If you have been injured in an accident, contact our office at (417) 304-3228 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Before you contact the insurance company, consider these 5 secrets they don’t want you to know:
1. Unrepresented Injured Parties End Up Settling for Less.
You have the right to an attorney. It is generally in your best interest to exercise that right. An attorney can advocate on your behalf and negotiate for the largest possible settlement in your case. They can also take your case to trial if a favorable settlement cannot be reached.
Insurance companies know that unrepresented injury victims are more likely to settle their claims early and for less than they are worth. They use high-pressure sales tactics to convince you to accept a settlement and avoid litigation. An adjuster may even tell you that you do not need an attorney or that an attorney will hurt your claim. An attorney represents you and your best interests. They will fight for you to receive the maximum recovery possible at all times.
2. Making a Statement Can Hurt You.
You should never make a statement to an insurance company without consulting an experienced attorney first. If you were involved in a car accident, you might need to contact your own carrier or the other party’s insurance company. Either way, you should not make any oral or written statements without first discussing your case with an attorney. What you say can and will be used against you.
3. Insurance Adjusters Will Downplay Your Injuries.
Too often, adjusters will try to downplay injuries or delay valid claims. An adjuster may argue that your injuries were pre-existing or that you contributed to the accident. By seeking medical treatment immediately and clearly documenting the harm you suffered, you can avoid a less than favorable outcome.
For severe trauma, such as brain injuries, it is imperative to not only be seen by a doctor but also to retain a lawyer as soon as possible. Brain injuries can have a long-term impact on your health and well-being. You deserve compensation that will cover all of your potential damages, including future medical treatment, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
4. Your Claim Could Get Denied.
Many people are shocked to find out how many claims get denied by insurance companies. They may try to place you at fault for the accident or argue that you are not covered under the policy. If your claim gets denied, you have the right to an appeal.
A lawyer can help decrease the chance that your claim will get denied. It is always a good idea to retain legal counsel as early in the process as possible to avoid lengthy delays in your case.
5. You Have the Right to Go to the Doctor of Your Choice.
Despite what an insurance adjuster might say, you have the right to be seen by the doctor of your choice. You also have the right to a second opinion.
The insurance company’s healthcare provider may have an incentive in minimizing the harmful effect of the accident or try to blame your injuries on another condition. Choose the doctor you feel most comfortable with, not necessarily the one recommended by the insurance company.
Contact Bishop & Hayes to Learn More
Were you injured in an accident? Is the insurance company trying to deny your claim? Contact our office at (417) 304-3228 for a free consultation. Our legal team has recovered millions of dollars in settlements for accident victims and their families. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to find out what your case is worth.