Dealing with insurance companies in personal injury cases can be daunting, with complexities and challenges. In their quest to protect their bottom line, these companies aim to pay minimal amounts for claims by seeking evidence to minimize the severity of the claim, injury, or damages. The practice often results in victims receiving far less than they may be entitled to for their pain, suffering, and incurred costs.
For this reason, legal representation plays a crucial role in navigating the intricacies of personal injury cases. An attorney well-versed in the law understands the victim's rights, is equipped to evaluate a case accurately, and can seek expert advice to identify what a case is truly worth. Most importantly, they can handle insurance company interactions.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident in Oklahoma, seeking legal advice is essential. Please schedule a consultation with the Law Offices of Keith J. Nedwick, P.C. by calling (866) 590-8173.
Understanding the Insurance Process After an Accident
The insurance process typically starts when the parties involved in an accident inform their insurers about the incident. You can also file a claim with the responsible party's carrier if you are not at fault.
As part of their procedures, the insurance company will inspect the damages to your vehicle and any other losses to determine the payout amount. Don't be surprised if the other person’s insurance company contacts you for additional information.
This process underscores the importance of careful documentation and communication. Maintain a detailed log of claim activity, including the name of every representative you've spoken to and the date and time of each interaction. Note the content of the discussion, such as the claim's status or any requirements for additional documentation.
Careful record-keeping can provide a crucial advantage when dealing with insurance companies. It can also be invaluable if you decide to hire an attorney, providing them with a comprehensive overview of your interactions with the insurance company.
The Risk of Navigating Insurance Claims Independently
Taking on the challenge of dealing with insurance claims without professional assistance is a common mistake many individuals make when handling personal injury cases. It's easy to fall into the trap of admitting even a small degree of fault, downplaying the extent of damages, or assuming that the insurance adjuster is there to help you. Simple missteps like these can have significant consequences.
Admitting fault or some level of responsibility for the accident, even in an offhand comment or a casual conversation, can severely impact your case. Insurance companies can use such admissions against you to lower the value of your claim. Similarly, underestimating your damages can result in a lower payout, which might not cover all your medical bills, repair costs, or other related expenses.
The insurance adjuster's job is to protect the company's interests, not yours. Offering more information than necessary or going into excessive detail can provide them with ammunition to dispute your claims.
The safest approach is providing simple answers and responding only to the questions asked. Don't delve into details unless explicitly requested to do so. Better yet, direct all communication through your attorney. They can communicate with the insurance adjuster, preventing you from inadvertently damaging your claim.
The Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
A lawyer brings extensive insight and hands-on experience to your case. They understand the nuances of personal injury law, the dynamics of dealing with insurance companies, and the complex processes involved in pursuing a claim. They are well-versed in legal terminology and have a solid knowledge base of legal procedures, such as filing and defending motions or taking depositions. This knowledge and experience are invaluable in building a robust case that can withstand the scrutiny of insurance companies.
Professional representation during negotiations is crucial. Your attorney serves as your advocate during these negotiations, helping you avoid being bullied or manipulated into accepting a lower-than-deserved settlement. The lawyer’s negotiation skills and knowledge of the law enable them to counter lowball offers effectively and push for a fair settlement.
Lastly, a lawyer is your staunch advocate, acting in your best interest. Whether it involves negotiating with the insurance companies or litigating your case in court, your attorney is there to protect you.
Speak with a Lawyer About Your Case
When dealing with an insurance carrier, remember the importance of diligent record-keeping, the need to avoid inadvertently damaging your claim, and the understanding that the companies are not on your side.
An attorney understands the ins and outs of personal injury law and has the experience and knowledge to navigate the labyrinth of insurance claims. They serve as your advocate, negotiating on your behalf, and seeking compensation for damages.
At the Law Offices of Keith J. Nedwick, P.C., we fight for our clients in Oklahoma. Call us at (866) 590-8173 or contact us online today.