5 Things Insurance Companies Wish you Didn't Know
Emily K. Lavelle
Managing Attorney at Lavelle Law Firm & Adjunct Ast. Professor at St. John's University
When an individual has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, they may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Claiming for an injury can be a long and difficult process for many, and insurance companies may be inclined to do whatever is necessary within their power in order to protect themselves. This might mean avoiding difficult circumstances, such as a high settlement, or taking advantage of misunderstandings, so they can dismiss or reduce the claim.?
We'll explore five key things insurance companies wish you didn’t know about personal injury cases and offer advice on how to avoid being taken advantage of.
First and foremost, insurance companies often make lowball offers. While the initial offer may seem fair and enticing, it may not be what you’re entitled to. It’s important to remember that an insurer may have a vested interest in avoiding a large payout, so it’s wise to wait for a fair settlement based on the true value of your claim.
Secondly, insurers may use delay tactics in order to encourage a claimant to accept a lower settlement. Underhand tactics like this are common, and they are designed to wear the claimant down and pressure them into signing a settlement agreement. This is why it’s important to be mindful of any promised deadlines and check if they are realistic.
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Thirdly, insurance companies prefer to directly deal with claimants. They will do this in order to establish a level of trust and familiarity with the claimant, thus potentially making them more likely to accept an offer that is less than what they deserve. It’s important for claimants not to engage in any dialogue without having had advice from an experienced attorney who is familiar with personal injury claims.
Fourthly, insurance companies may try to deny or reduce the claim by introducing evidence against the victim. This could include medical records or photos that are interpreted as proof that the claimant’s damages are not as severe as claimed or even non-existent. It is important for claimants not to be intimidated by this tactic and to remember that the burden of proof lies with the insurance company which must be able to prove their case.
Finally, insurance companies often attempt to take advantage of claimants who are unfamiliar with their rights and the claims process. This could include trying to establish a biased interpretation of the circumstances or acting on information they have discovered unethically. It is essential that claimants are familiar with their rights and know that they can make complaints if they believe an insurer has acted unfairly.
As personal injury claims can be complex and daunting, legal advice from experienced attorneys is essential. Knowing the facts and understanding your rights can help protect you from being taken advantage of and ensure that you receive a fair settlement for any injuries suffered. If you've been injured in an accident and are looking to pursue a personal injury case, speak to Lavelle Law Firm today for a free consultation. We would be happy to help!