Insurance companies often play a major role in personal injury litigation. Knowing how and how not to deal with those entities in order to maximize your chances of reaching a favorable verdict in their case is the key to getting the justice you seek.
You hire insurance companies to protect you in personal injury litigation in case you are at fault. The funny thing is: insurance companies never lose. Therefore, knowing how and how not to deal with those entities in order to maximize your chances of reaching a favorable verdict in their case is the key to getting the justice you seek.
Here’s What You Should Never, Ever Do
Never Give a Recorded Statement
The at-fault insurance company might tell you it’s a routine part of the claim investigation, but don’t fall for it. They can use this statement against you later to minimize your recovery of damages in the settlement. Rarely, if ever, does giving an insurance company a recorded statement help you in your case. If you are going to give a statement, make sure you have an experienced private injury attorney present.
Interestingly, in November 2019, an insurance company told me that they would not repair my car unless they got a recorded statement from me because it was the law! I simply replied that that was not true and to show me where in Chapter 627 it states that I must give the at-fault party a recorded statement. They backed off once I told them that I would hire a lawyer…myself.
Don’t Have Your Doctor Bill Your Health Insurance Company
You may be trying not to touch your car insurance and that you want to use your health insurance only, but that is completely wrong. You are obligated to use your Personal Injury Protection benefits through your auto insurance first! And then your health insurance. If you use your health insurance, you also have to pay them back anyway!
Don’t Settle Too Quickly
You may think your injuries aren’t that serious–now. But in the future, you might find complications you hadn’t expected and if you agreed at the beginning of negotiations, you might end up agreeing to a much smaller settlement than you’re entitled to. At that point, you can’t ask for more, even though you have more medical bills, potentially more lost income, etc. Patience is key.
Never Give Adjusters What They Ask for to Value the Claim
This is where your attorney comes in. They know how to convince the adjust to value your claim properly and let them know they will file a lawsuit if not. A proven personal injury attorney knows what to say and, more importantly, what not to say, to an insurance adjuster. He or she knows how cases are valued and can hand over the proper documentation to show medical expenses incurred, opinions to show causation and injuries, lost wages, a life care plan, and more to get you the justice you deserve.
The Bottom Line: What to Do After a Tampa Car Accident?
If it’s your fault, report it to the insurance company and be honest. Not only is honesty the right thing, but it’s also highly efficient. If it’s not your fault and you are fine, report it to the insurance company. Again, be honest and cooperative. If it’s not your fault and you are injured, always, always consult with a personal injury lawyer before speaking to either your or the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
It’s important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate all the nuances of dealing with insurance companies.
If you’re involved in an auto accident, it’s important to seek medical attention and the advice of proven, trial-tested personal injury attorneys like those at Fernandez & Hernandez Attorneys At Law. We can work with your or the insurance company to make sure you receive the damages you deserve—especially if your injuries have the potential to impact you for a lifetime. You can reach us for advice 24/7 by calling 813.755.9500. Hablan español.
