After being injured in an accident, you probably just want money to help you pay for your care and offset your lost wages as quickly as possible so that you can focus on your recovery. Insurance companies often prey on these desires, offering quick settlements that are enticing to those who have been recently traumatized in a car accident. But is it really so bad to work with the insurance company to secure compensation? After all, their representative might seem helpful and like they really care about getting you back on your feet.
Unfortunately, although you’ll have to work with an insurance company to try to secure the compensation you need, there’s a good chance it won’t be smooth sailing. At least, not if you want to secure the financial resources you deserve. Let’s look at why it’s oftentimes a bad idea to work with an insurance company in the aftermath of an accident.
Reasons why you shouldn’t talk to an insurance company without your attorney
Talking to an insurance company can be risky. Here are some of the reasons why:
- The insurance company is looking out for its own interests: Insurance companies are in the business of making money, regardless of what their advertising campaigns might say. Therefore, in many instances, they’re looking for a way to minimize your injuries or outright deny your claim. So, you can’t really trust them to look out for your best interests.
- The insurance company will twist your words: As the insurance company’s representative talks to you, they’ll be listening very closely for anything they can use to potentially reduce your payout or to deny it altogether. Your words might therefore be taken out of context and twisted to be used against you. After all, if you’re found to be partially at fault, then you might be denied the full extent of the compensation that you’re trying to recover.
- The insurance company creates a confusing process: As you navigate the claims process with an insurance company, you’re bound to be confused and overwhelmed by their process. There can be countless forms to fill out, hundreds of pages of documents to provide, and timelines to which you have to adhere. When you seek clarification of how to navigate the process, the insurance company can be less than helpful. This is because they’re hoping you’ll make a mistake that they can then use against you.
- The insurance company will try to confuse you about the value of your claim: The insurance company involved in your case will probably try to step in quickly to offer you settlement. Their hope is that you’ll accept it without fully realizing the value of your claim. They might also downplay the severity of your injuries, your need for ongoing medical treatment, and the amount of time that you’ll need to be out of work, thereby trying to convince you that the settlement offer contains a proper amount. But remember, they’re not on your side. So, slow down and listen to those who are advocating for you. Only then will you gain a complete picture of what your claim is worth and can then fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t miss an opportunity to secure the financial resources you need
Your accident has taken a lot from you. Now is the time to advocate for what’s needed to get you back on your feet. To successfully do so, though, you need to gather evidence and know how to effectively navigate the process. So, be diligent, be thorough, and be sure to educate yourself on what’s needed to succeed on your claim. Hopefully then you’ll be able to get the most out of your claim and set yourself up for a successful recovery.