An insurance claim can be an overwhelming experience. From its initial filing to the final settlement, it seems like an uphill struggle. Most people get overwhelmed, unaware of their rights, and frustrated by the tactics insurance companies use.
Insurance companies are looking to minimize the money they spend on settlement payouts to make a profit. This may result in the policyholder receiving less than they deserve. Knowing how to handle your claim can make a difference.
Reaching out to a personal injury lawyer who can provide valuable guidance and support during this challenging time is crucial. They will help guide you through endless stacks of paperwork and make sure you’re treated fairly.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the key steps and techniques for handling insurance companies so that anyone can easily and confidently deal with filing a claim.
Tactics Insurance Companies Use
Insurance companies are companies that aim to maximize their profit. The most significant way to maximize profit is by not making or reducing the payouts to people like you.
Some common tactics include the following:
- Delaying: The investigations or paperwork drag on in the hope of you giving up or settling for less.
- Low-ball offers: Usually, the first amount of settlement offered by them is below what you really deserve.
- Denial of liability: They can shift blame to another party about the extent of damages.
- Using your words against you: Adjusters often try to get you to say something that will jeopardize your claim.
Knowing Your Rights
There are certain rights as a policyholder while dealing with the insurance company:
- Right to fair dealing: You are entitled to have the insurance company deal with you in a fair and honest manner.
- Right to timely responses: Your claims and inquiries are to be attended to within a short time.
- Right to clear information: You should be given explanations about your policy and how claims are processed.
- Right to appeal: In the event that they decline your case, you can file an appeal against the decision.
Gather and Present Your Evidence
To win the case against the insurance company, it is going to need some strong evidence.
Here is what you will have to do:
- Documentation: Written documents for every contact with the insurance company should be kept.
- Physical evidence: Take photos of damages, collect medical reports and save receipts for expenses.
- Witnesses: Get statements from them if they are relevant to your case.
- Journal: Keep a record of just how the incident is affecting your daily life and work.
Negotiation Strategies
When negotiating with the insurance company, these are the things to remember:
- Don’t take the first offer: It is usually less than you deserve.
- Know your policy: Know what you are entitled to under your cover.
- Calm and professional: Outbursts of your emotions may damage your case.
- Patient: Negotiations take time, so be patient and composed. Hasty decisions may work to your detriment.
When You Should Consult an Attorney
Sometimes you need a professional in your corner. Consider getting legal help if:
- Your claim has been unfairly denied.
- The offer presented is ridiculously low.
- You are being pressured to accept an offer without having enough time to think carefully.
- The insurance company is acting in bad faith.
- You have a case involving severe injuries.
Conclusion
Fighting with an insurance firm is very difficult and tedious. But knowing what insurance companies do, how to diligently document the case, and where to find help can increase the chances of success.
Be confident in the fact that you deserve a fair settlement. Equipped with the proper knowledge and aid, anyone can confidently get through the process of making an insurance claim and make sure they get what they deserve.
