If you are involved in an accident, there are some things that you should avoid doing to make the process easier. Talking with insurance companies can be tricky, and if you make a mistake, it could cost you later on down the road. This blog post will discuss some of the most common mistakes people make when dealing with insurance companies after an accident. Read on to learn more.
Failing to consult with a lawyer
One of the primary mistakes that most people make when talking with insurance companies is failing to consult with a lawyer first. The Top Auto Accident Attorneys in Orange County suggest that if you have been involved in an accident, it is important to seek legal counsel before talking to insurance adjusters. Your lawyer will be able to advise you on what to say and what not to say to protect your rights. For instance, you may inadvertently make a statement that could be used against you later on.
In choosing a lawyer to work with, be sure to ask around for recommendations. You should also check to see if the lawyer you are considering has experience dealing with the particular insurance company that you are filing a claim with. Another thing that you need to consider is the fees that the lawyer will charge. Some lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. Once you have chosen a lawyer, be sure to schedule a consultation so that you can get all of your questions answered and feel comfortable moving forward with the process.
Giving a recorded statement
Another mistake that people often make is giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting with their lawyer first. It is important to keep in mind that anything you say can and will be used against you. For this reason, it is best to have your lawyer present during any questioning. For example, instead of saying “I’m not sure,” you could inadvertently say something that implies guilt. Even if you think you are being helpful, it is important to let your lawyer handle the situation. This way, you will have a greater chance of success in your case.
Apologizing
In parallel to giving a recorded statement, you should also avoid apologizing for the accident. Even if you think that it was your fault, apologizing could be used against you later on. For example, the other driver’s insurance company could use your apology as an admission of guilt. As such, it is best to avoid saying anything that could be construed as an apology. If you are not at fault for the accident, then there is no need to apologize.
Not having a good understanding of your policy
Failing to understand your insurance policy is another mistake that you need to avoid. Before you talk to an insurance adjuster, take the time to review your policy so that you know what coverage you have. This way, you will be able to determine what benefits you are entitled to. For instance, it may be stated in your policy that you are covered for certain types of damages such as lost wages or medical expenses. If you do not have a good understanding of your policy, you could end up leaving money on the table, accepting a settlement that is much lower than what you are owed. The insurance company may also take advantage of you and offer you less than you deserve.
Allowing the insurance company to low-ball you
One of the most common mistakes that people make is accepting the first settlement offer from the insurance company. In many cases, this initial offer is much lower than what you are entitled to. Insurance companies often use this tactic to save money. If you accept their initial offer, you could end up having to pay for some of the damages out of your pocket.
It is important to keep in mind that you are not obligated to accept the first offer from the insurance company. If you feel like the offer is too low, you can negotiate for a higher amount. Be sure to have your lawyer present during these negotiations. He or she will be able to advise you on whether or not the offer is fair.
Failing to document everything
If you have been involved in an accident, it is important to document everything. This includes taking pictures of the scene of the accident, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and keeping track of all medical expenses. This documentation will be crucial if you decide to file a lawsuit. Without it, you may have a difficult time proving your case.
Not taking your injuries seriously
Another mistake that people often make is not taking their injuries seriously. Just because you are not bleeding or broken bones does not mean that you are not injured. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show up immediately. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are not related to the accident. It is important to get medical treatment right away and to follow your doctor’s orders. This will not only help you recover from your injuries, but it will also provide documentation of your injuries. This documentation will be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
Being dishonest
As much as possible, you should avoid being dishonest when talking to the insurance company. This includes exaggerating your injuries or downplaying the extent of the damage to your vehicle. It is important to be truthful about what happened and about your injuries. If you are caught being dishonest, it could jeopardize your entire case.
These are just a few of the mistakes that you need to avoid when talking to insurance companies after an accident. If you have been involved in an accident, be sure to consult with a personal injury lawyer before doing anything. He or she can advise you on the best course of action and help you avoid making any mistakes that could jeopardize your case.
