- August 5, 2020
When a car accident occurs, there’s often massive fallout. In addition to the resulting injuries and property damage, there’s also the issue of getting compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. It isn’t always easy to recover damages. Sometimes insurers have legitimate reasons for denying a claim but other times, they’re just trying to protect their profit margins. Our Greenville car wreck attorneys will help you every step of the way. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the things insurance companies try and what you can do to increase the likelihood that your claim will be approved.
How Insurance Companies Operate
Insurance companies are designed to make a profit and provide a return on investment. Even though they should pay out valid claims, they are reluctant to do so since it means increasing their expenditure. If you’re an accident victim who is facing astronomical medical expenses and months off work, this may be the last thing you want to hear. However, you need to understand how this business works.
To put it simply, insurance companies make money by collecting premiums and investing the money in bonds, real estate, and other options on the market. These investments bring in revenue that’s well above what the insurer makes from premiums. This means that satisfying individuals – like injured victims- isn’t at the top of the agenda. At the same time, drivers are required by law to have insurance, so most continue to pay their premiums. This doesn’t mean that insurance companies can do whatever they want. However, victims often need to hire an experienced South Carolina auto accident attorney to help them get what they deserve.
There are three common ways in which insurance companies try to get out of paying claims. Shortly after the accident, you’re likely to be contacted by an insurance adjuster. They may claim they’re looking out for you but really, they’re looking out for their employer’s interest. They will try to reduce the amount the insurer has to pay by:
- Discouraging you from hiring a lawyer. Insurance adjusters know that attorneys are aware of their tricks. They know that unrepresented victims are more likely to accept less than they deserve. If you suffered serious injuries, you must work with an attorney.
- Spying on you. This is especially likely if you have permanent or long-term injuries that should result in a massive payout. The adjuster may hire a private investigator to track you in the hopes of discovering that you’re faking your injuries. They may also check out your social media posts to see if there’s any evidence that can be used against you.
- Drawing out the process as long as they can. Adjusters hope that if they stall long enough, the victim will abandon the claim or accept the lowest possible offer. If an insurance company is operating in bad faith, your attorney will know what to do.
- Using your words against you. Even the most innocent comments can be used to deny or delay your claim. That’s why you should never talk to an adjuster without first consulting an attorney.
What to Do If You Experience Problems in Getting Compensation
It’s best to hire an attorney from the start since it lets the insurance company know that you’re serious. However, some car accident victims only call a lawyer when their claim gets denied or the matter seems to be dragging on forever.
Fortunately, as long as the statute of limitations has not passed, an attorney may be able to help you. If the insurer doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain, the attorney will know how to hold them accountable. This may mean sending a demand letter, filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party or even suing the insurance company for bad faith. Auto accident lawyers in Greenville, SC will investigate each case and determine the most appropriate action.
Contact Hernandez & Cabra To Discuss Your Case
If you received injuries in an accident, we’re here to help. You don’t have to fight against an insurance company on your own. Instead, hire our auto accident lawyers in Greenville, SC, and get expert advice and representation. We’ll stand up for your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly. Our aim is to secure full and fair compensation on your behalf.
We urge you to contact us today to set up a free consultation and learn more about what we can do for you. If you choose to hire us, you won’t have to pay any fees upfront. You only pay when we get compensation for you, whether through negotiation or jury verdict. Since you have nothing to lose but lots to gain, call us today!
