In the aftermath of a car accident, individuals often turn to their insurance providers with the expectation of fair compensation for damages incurred. However, there exists a
disconcerting reality in the insurance industry – a set of tactics employed by companies to minimize payouts and underpay their clients. Understanding these strategies is crucial for individuals seeking equitable compensation and navigating the complex claims process. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the tricks insurance companies use to underpay their clients after a car accident.
Initial Lowball Offers:
One common tactic employed by insurance companies is the issuance of lowball settlement offers right from the outset. Shortly after an accident, adjusters may present victims with a seemingly reasonable settlement that fails to account for the full extent of damages. This early settlement attempt aims to capitalize on the victim’s vulnerability and immediate need for funds, coercing them into accepting an inadequate sum.
To combat this tactic, individuals should refrain from hastily accepting the initial offer and instead consult with legal professionals who can assess the true value of the claim based on comprehensive evaluations of medical bills, property damage, and other relevant factors.
Delaying Claims Processing:
Insurance companies often employ the strategy of delaying claims processing to wear down claimants and force them into accepting a less favorable settlement. Lengthy investigations, repeated requests for documentation, and unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles contribute to this deliberate delay. By elongating the claims process, insurers hope that claimants will become frustrated and settle for less out of desperation.
To counteract this, claimants should stay persistent, document all interactions with the insurance company, and seek legal representation if unnecessary delays persist. Legal professionals can expedite the process and ensure that insurers adhere to reasonable timelines.
Disputing Medical Necessity:
Insurance companies may challenge the medical necessity of certain treatments or procedures, arguing that they are excessive or unrelated to the accident. This tactic allows insurers to undermine the legitimacy of medical expenses, subsequently reducing the overall payout. To combat this, claimants should maintain detailed records of all medical treatments and consultations, ensuring that each expense is clearly linked to the accident.
Engaging medical professionals to provide expert testimony can strengthen the validity of medical claims, making it more challenging for insurance companies to dispute their necessity.
Utilizing Comparative Negligence:
Another common strategy employed by insurance companies is the assertion of comparative negligence, which involves placing partial blame on the claimant for the accident. By doing so, insurers can diminish their liability and subsequently reduce the amount of compensation owed.
Claimants should be prepared for attempts to shift blame and should gather evidence, such as witness statements, photographs, and police reports, to establish a clear picture of the accident’s circumstances. Legal professionals can help counter these allegations and ensure a fair assessment of liability.
Depreciating Property Damage:
Insurers often use depreciation to undervalue property damage claims, particularly for older vehicles. By factoring in wear and tear, insurers reduce the estimated value of repairs or replacements, leading to lower payouts for claimants.
To counter this tactic, claimants should provide comprehensive documentation, including repair estimates and evidence of the vehicle’s pre-accident condition. Seeking independent appraisals and expert opinions can help establish the accurate value of property damage.
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is undoubtedly a challenging and stressful experience, and insurance companies’ tactics to underpay their clients can exacerbate the difficulties. Awareness of these strategies is crucial for individuals seeking fair compensation. Seeking legal guidance, maintaining meticulous documentation, and remaining vigilant throughout the claims process can help level the playing field and ensure that insurance companies fulfill their obligation to provide just and adequate compensation to those affected by car accidents.
Fielding Law Group Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers
If you or a family member has been involved in an accident and needs help after an injury, contact the accident attorneys at Fielding Law Group. We have helped thousands of people get the compensation they were owed and have made sure they received everything they needed after their accident. Don’t take on an insurance company on your own, they have attorneys and staff and you deserve a team on your side as well. Let us handle the stress so you can focus on your recovery. Contact Fielding Law Group today and get started on your recovery with our team on your side. Call or text with us to setup your free case evaluation, it only takes a few minutes.
