Were you injured by another driver in an auto accident? If so, you could have a huge amount of medical expenses and other financial problems. You might be unable to work for some time. Before long, you'll probably be approached by an insurance company with a settlement offer. Here are six things you should not do if you want to get the best deal and have the fewest problems.

1. Don't assume the insurance adjuster is there to help you.

When the insurance company adjuster visits you, he or she is friendly and courteous, and it may appear that this person is going to help you. However, the adjuster represents the interests of the insurance company. That is an adjuster's job. In fact, he or she is there to give you the least amount of money for a claim and to deny your claim, if possible. This is a significant thing to keep in mind.


2. Don't think the first offer is the only offer.

Many companies come out with lowball offers because they know that accident victims need their cars repaired and they may have a lot of unpaid bills to pay. They may pressure you into accepting by telling you that their offer may be withdrawn if you don't accept it now. The truth is, there is usually more money available because the insurance companies are in business to give you the least amount possible for your claim. This is one of the ways that they make profits.


3. Don't make any written or recorded statements to the adjuster.

Some insurance adjusters may want you to sign a paper or make a recorded statement about the accident. This is not usually in your best interest. In fact, insurance companies often use this kind of information to deny claims or find ways to minimize the damages you received.


4. Don't fall for insurance company delay tactics.

If you refuse the first offer, the insurance company may not return your calls for a while. In fact, you may feel like you are being ignored and this can cause some people to panic and accept the initial offer. This is a common ploy of many companies, and you should understand this tact and be patient.

5. Don't believe everything insurers tell you.

Some insurance companies have been known to stretch the truth when it comes to settling auto insurance claims. For example, they may say that you must take your car to their shop (or a shop they designate) to get it fixed. However, this is not the truth. You can take your vehicle to any repair shop.


6. Don't go up against big insurance companies by yourself.

Insurers may tell you that hiring a personal injury lawyer is not necessary because they are looking out for your interests. In reality, the insurers are taking care of their interests, and if they can get you to settle for much less, it's more money in their pockets.

When you go up against a large corporation, you are outmatched. They have many trained and experienced people and multimillion dollar resources at their disposal. That's why you need a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney working hard for you.


Things to Remember

If you received injuries in a car accident, you might have a lot of problems manage. When an insurance adjuster contacts you, don't assume that this person is your friend. Don't sign anything or make statements until you have professional legal advice. The first offer is usually much less than the insurer is willing to pay and some companies may resort to all kinds of tactics to trick you into accepting their terms.

Your personal injury lawyer wants you to get the best settlement. In fact, he or she receives nothing if your claim is denied. With an experienced attorney on your side, you can level the playing field against big business and get the kind of insurance settlement that you deserve.


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