If you have recently been injured in a car accident, you most likely have a lot on your mind. On top of your physical injuries, you now have to speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, and you’re concerned about what you should, and should not say. For this very reason, our experienced Jacksonville personal injury attorneys have compiled a short list of things to keep in mind when speaking with insurance adjusters. They are as follows:
- First and foremost, you must understand that insurance companies are businesses, which means that generally, their bottom line is more important to them than making a payout to you. Knowing that they are not looking out for your best interests is the most important thing for you to understand. As such, you can expect the insurance company to first offer you a lowball settlement. Do not accept their first settlement without first speaking with an experineced personal injury attorney. Oftentimes, you will find that you are entitled to far more than what they initially offer.
- You should also note that oftentimes, insurance companies will try and downplay your injuries to get out of paying your medical bills. Of course, this is unacceptable, which is why you must keep a meticulous record of all doctor’s notes/visits, surgeries, and any other medical treatment you receive.
- Oftentimes, when speaking with an insurance adjuster, they will ask seemingly ambiguous, vague, or even trick questions. They will do anything in their power to trip you up and get you to say anything that may contradict the truth of the matter. That is why you should not speak with an insurance adjuster without the assistance of an experienced attorney.
- After an accident, the other party’s insurance company may tell you to go to a certain body shop to have your car repaired. However, you must understand that this is only a suggestion, and you are not legally obligated to do so. In fact, very often, insurance companies have agreements with auto body shops, and if you go to the one they choose, you may receive an estimate that does not fully cover all of the damage to your car. This is why you should instead go to an auto body shop you trust.
- One of the sneakiest tactics insurance companies will try after you deny their first settlement offer is to seemingly disappear. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is generally four years, which means if you wait any longer than four years, you will be barred from suing. Oftentimes, after a denying a settlement, insurance companies will simply wait for the statute of limitations to expire, which is why after an accident, it is always your best option to immediately hire an experienced personal injury attorney.
- Finally, if a favorable settlement is reached, ensure you do not sign any documentation without first having your attorney look it over. You must fully understand what you are signing before signing it, and our firm can help you do so.
Contact our experienced Florida firm
Ansbacher Law is comprised of knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to assist clients with various legal matters throughout North Florida. We understand the urgency of your personal injury claim and additional legal matters, which is why we provide each of our clients with compassionate and efficient legal assistance, every step of the way. Please contact our office for an initial consultation today.
