When you are injured in a car accident, you may be tempted to handle the insurance claim on your own. After all, how difficult could it be? The other driver was clearly at fault, and you have a pretty good idea of the damages you have incurred. However, unfortunately, dealing with insurance companies is rarely that simple. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize the amount of money that the insurance company has to pay out on claims. They do this by looking for any reason to deny or reduce the value of your claim. An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to deal with these tactics and fight for the full value of your claim.
1. You May Not Receive Fair Compensation Without a Lawyer
Insurance companies are in the business of making money. They do this by collecting premiums and then paying out as little as possible on claims. One of the ways they minimize payouts is by offering low settlements to accident victims who try to handle their own claims. These low settlements may not cover your medical bills, let alone other damages such as lost wages and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to negotiate with the insurance company to get you the full value of your claim.
2. The Insurance Company May Try to Deny Your Claim Entirely
Even if the other driver was clearly at fault for the accident, the insurance company may try to deny your claim entirely. They may do this by claiming that you were actually at fault for the accident or that your injuries are not as serious as you claim. A car accident lawyer will know how to deal with these tactics and fight for the full value of your claim.
3. You May Have to Deal with More Than One Insurance Company
If you are injured in a car accident, you may have to deal with more than one insurance company. The other driver's insurance company may try to deny or reduce the value of your claim. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may have to deal with your own insurance company as well. An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to deal with all of these insurance companies.
4. The Statute of Limitations May Run Out
If you try to handle your own car accident claim, you may inadvertently waive your right to file a lawsuit. If you do not file within the specified time period, you will be barred from filing a lawsuit and receiving any compensation for your injuries.
5. You May Not Know All the Damages You Are Entitled To
When you are injured in a car accident, you may be focused on your immediate medical bills and lost wages. However, you may be entitled to other damages as well. These can include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and lost future earnings. A car accident lawyer can help you know what damages you are entitled to.
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