If you’re involved in a car accident, an insurance company may be responsible for providing you with compensation. But the process isn’t always straightforward and you will need to work to get the money you deserve. Follow these tips for negotiating with the car insurance company and improve your chances of a fair payout.
1. Know the Role of the Insurance Company and Insurance Adjuster
Before you get started, you need to realize that the insurance company and the insurance adjuster is not there for you. It’s not their job to give accident victims significant payouts. Rather, it’s their job to fight claims and provide claimants with as little money as possible.
The insurance company is a business, and as such, they only care about making money. As they examine your claim, they will look for reasons to deny it.
2. Do Your Own Investigation
Although the insurance company will conduct its own investigation, you should take matters into your own hands. Collect evidence that proves your claim is valid. If you’re arguing that the other party was at fault, use a police report and photo evidence to document that fault.
This part of the process can be difficult. If you’re not up to the challenge, you should work with an experienced attorney. They know where to go for information and will delve deep into the accident to get you proof that supports your claim.
3. Calculate All of Your Damages
It’s crucial to know your full damages before you decide to start negotiating with the insurance company. When determining your damages, you need to go through your medical expenses and missed wages. But this shouldn’t be the only damages you calculate.
Other damages are more difficult to assign a value. For instance, you need to consider the cost of future medical bills, pain and suffering, and emotional anguish. Do the math and add everything together, and you will have your total damages. If the insurance company offers you less than your total damages, you should consider negotiating for a better one.
4. Have All Your Documents Ready
The insurance company won’t take you at your word, so you’ll need to provide proof of your damages. Immediately after your accident, start saving your medical bills, pay stubs, and receipts of accident-related purchases.
Be diligent with all of your record keeping. If you’re making an argument for pain and suffering, you might need testimony from a medical professional. The more documents and evidence you have, the better your chances of a successful negotiation.
5. Call an Attorney
Although you could negotiate with the insurance company on your own behalf, doing so may not be in your best interest. Claims adjusters are trained negotiators who have dedicated their careers to negotiating low settlement offers. They will do what it takes to deny your claim or convince you to take a low offer.
By working with an aggressive attorney, you can take on the adjuster and the insurance company. They know how to build a strong case and are skilled in the art of negotiation. Instead of handling the insurance company alone, you can do so with the expertise of a lawyer.
In 2018, there were 401,851 car accidents in Florida. If you were one of the many victims, you deserve guidance and support. Abercrombie Personal Injury Law Firm is ready to take on your case.
