After an insurance claim, it can be hard to know what to do, especially when dealing with insurance agents. These people work for insurance companies and decide if claims are true and how much they are worth.
Even though it seems like their job is simple, knowing how they work can help you protect your rights and get the most out of your settlement. A lot of the time, insurance adjusters use tactics that harm claims, so get help from attorney Anthony Carbone right away.
Understanding the insurance claim process.
You must first file a report with your insurance company to make a claim. Then, they send an estimator to look into the details, gather proof, and figure out how much your claim is worth. This includes figuring out who is guilty, figuring out how much damage was done (to property or people), and making a settlement deal.
Common tactics that insurance adjusters use.
Even though adjusters want fair deals, the bottom line for the company is what matters to them. Keep the following tactics in mind and be aware of them.
- Strategies for delaying.
The agent could ask for more information or proof, which would make the process take longer. They want you to become frustrated and give in to a lower settlement.
- Making lowball offers.
The initial payment amount might be a lot less than what your claim is worth. This strategy is a way to start negotiating.
- Shifting the responsibility.
The agent might try to blame someone else for the accident or incident, which could lower the amount of money that the insured’s policy will pay out.
- Playing down injuries or damage.
When it comes to injury cases, an adjuster might play down how bad your injuries are or say they were there before. In this way, compensation can be kept to a minimum.
- Making use of recorded statements.
Early comments that were recorded can be used against you later if you forget important facts or do not realize how bad the damage is.
Strategies you can use to protect your claim and your rights.
To protect your rights, you need to first understand these strategies. You can do the following:
- Prepare yourself.
Keep copies of all the things that are connected to your claim, like photos, repair quotes, medical records, and police reports. Write down everything you say to the adjuster.
- Talk to a lawyer.
A lawyer with a lot of experience can help you file your claim, talk to the adjuster on your behalf, and make sure you get a fair payment.
- Do not hurry the process.
Do not feel like you have to agree to a quick deal if it seems too low. Take your time, get proof, and know how much your claim is worth.
- Being honest and concise is best.
Give the adjuster correct information, but do not go into too much detail. Do not say anything that could be taken the wrong way; just stick to the facts.
- Check out independent appraisals.
If you do not agree with how much damage the insurance company says there is, get another opinion to help your case.
When should you look for legal assistance?
A lot of people can handle the claims process on their own, but cases that are complicated and involve serious injuries, property damage, or disagreements over who is responsible usually need the help of a lawyer.
A personal injury lawyer can help you a lot, use their knowledge to guide you, and protect your rights throughout the whole process.
Get professional legal help today.
Insurance adjusters are very important for looking out for the interests of clients. A fair deal is more likely if everyone knows their role.
But if your claim is difficult or there are a lot of papers, you might want to talk to a personal injury lawyer. Skilled lawyers can level the playing field and look out for your best interests. Gaining knowledge is powerful, and having a lawyer can have a big effect on how your insurance claim turns out.
