5 Secrets Insurance Defense Attorneys Don't Want You to Know

#1: Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

If you've been injured in an accident, you may be tempted to accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company. However, it's important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize their losses, not to maximize your compensation.

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), insurance companies paid out only 58% of claims filed in 2020. This means that nearly half of all claims are denied or underpaid.

If you've been injured in an accident, don't sign anything or accept any settlement offers until you've had a chance to speak with an experienced insurance defense attorney.

#2: You Don't Need to Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company

After an accident, the insurance company may contact you and ask you to give a recorded statement. You are not obligated to give a recorded statement. In fact, it's usually not in your best interests to do so.

Insurance companies use recorded statements to try to get you to say something that can be used against you later. For example, they may try to get you to admit that you were at fault for the accident or that you're not as injured as you claim to be.

If you're asked to give a recorded statement, politely decline. Tell the insurance company that you're not comfortable giving a statement without first speaking with an attorney.

#3: You Can Negotiate with the Insurance Company

Many people believe that they have no choice but to accept whatever settlement offer the insurance company makes. However, this is not true. You can negotiate with the insurance company to get a fair settlement.

When negotiating with the insurance company, it's important to be prepared. You should have a clear understanding of your injuries, your medical expenses, and your lost wages. You should also be prepared to provide documentation to support your claims.

If you're not comfortable negotiating with the insurance company on your own, you can hire an attorney to represent you. Attorneys are experienced in dealing with insurance companies and can help you get the best possible settlement.

#4: You May Be Entitled to More Than You Think

Many people who have been injured in accidents underestimate the amount of compensation they are entitled to. In addition to your medical expenses and lost wages, you may also be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

An experienced insurance defense attorney can help you determine the full extent of your damages. They can also help you negotiate with the insurance company to get the compensation you deserve.

#5: Don't Give Up

If the insurance company denies your claim or offers you a low settlement, don't give up. You have the right to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Here are some tips for fighting the insurance company:

• Get a copy of your insurance policy. This will help you understand your coverage and rights.
• Gather documentation to support your claim. This includes medical records, bills, and lost wage statements.
• Write a demand letter to the insurance company. This letter should state your claim and the amount of compensation you are seeking.
• Be prepared to negotiate. The insurance company may not offer you the full amount you are seeking. However, you should be prepared to negotiate until you reach a fair settlement.
• Don't be afraid to go to court. If you cannot reach a fair settlement with the insurance company, you may need to file a lawsuit.

Fighting the insurance company can be a long and difficult process. However, it is important to remember that you have the right to fair compensation. With the help of an experienced insurance defense attorney, you can get the justice you deserve.

Tips and Tricks

• Be honest with your doctor and attorney. The more information they have, the better they can help you.
• Keep a journal of your injuries and pain levels. This will help you document your symptoms and track your progress.
• Get a second opinion if you're not satisfied with your doctor's diagnosis or treatment plan.
• Don't sign anything without first speaking with an attorney.
• Be patient. Fighting the insurance company can take time. However, it is important to stay positive and never give up on your claim.

Pros and Cons

Pros of Hiring an Insurance Defense Attorney

• Experience. Insurance defense attorneys have experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to get their clients the best possible settlements.
• Knowledge. Insurance defense attorneys are experts in the law and can help you understand your rights and options.
• Negotiation skills. Insurance defense attorneys are skilled negotiators and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
• Trial experience. If necessary, insurance defense attorneys can represent you in court and fight for your rights.

Cons of Hiring an Insurance Defense Attorney

• Cost. Hiring an insurance defense attorney can be expensive. However, the cost of hiring an attorney is often outweighed by the amount of compensation you can recover.
• Time. Fighting the insurance company can take time. However, an experienced insurance defense attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve as quickly as possible.

Conclusion

If you've been injured in an accident, don't hesitate to contact an experienced insurance defense attorney. An attorney can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.