Most personal injury claims will settle at some point without going to a jury trial. However, getting to that stage can be a challenge. Dealing with an insurance company is not easy, and this is intentional. Insurance companies want to make things hard for you. An experienced and aggressive attorney can help cut through some of the red tape that insurance companies like to put in place.
Remember that an insurance company is a business. They have profits to worry about, whether they are publicly or privately owned. Claims are an expense. Every dollar that they need to pay out for a claim is one less dollar that they make. Therefore, they will do everything that they can to avoid paying you the full value of your claim.
The most important thing to know is that the insurance company does not get the last word. While they have some power over your legal process, they have no power to dictate terms to you. If they deny your claim, or if they are refusing to be reasonable about their offer, you have legal rights. Namely, you can take your case to court to get a hearing from a jury.
Be Very Careful When Dealing with an Insurance Company
Never trust an insurance company. They are not your friend. Their main motivation is to make money. If they are making you a settlement offer, you should approach it with some skepticism. The chances are that the insurance company is trying to lowball your settlement offer. If they get you to settle your case for less, they make more money. Usually, getting what you deserve from the insurance company takes some negotiation before you can reach an agreement.
In the meantime, you should make sure to keep quiet during the claims process and leave everything to your attorney. The insurance company will try to get you to say something that could undercut your own claim. They may pressure you or try to talk to you. Do not fall for this trap. Say nothing and do all of the talking through your lawyer.
In the end, nearly all personal injury victims will deal with an insurance company at some point in the process. There are very few shortcuts in the settlement process, and you should expect a difficult time before you can settle your claim. However, you will most likely reach a settlement eventually.
Greenville Personal Injury Lawyers
Upstate Personal Injury Lawyers know all of the tricks that an insurance company will try to use to profit at your expense. We do not let them get away with it, and we will fight on your behalf. Call us today at (864) 686-5500 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation.
FAQ
What Happens if My Claim Is Denied?
You can file a lawsuit against the defendant in court, and the jury will decide your case.
What Should I Do When I Get a Settlement Offer?
You should have your lawyer review the offer to see if it pays you fairly.
What Happens if the Settlement Offer Is Low?
You have the ability to reject a settlement offer and make your own counteroffer.
