Protecting Your Rights When Working with Your Insurer after a Car Accident
In the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, most people simply turn to their automobile insurance providers, hoping to get full and fair recovery under the policies they have purchased. Unfortunately, insurance companies are in the business of making money, and have a vested interest in paying as little as possible to settle your claim. Unless it’s a very small payoff, you won’t likely work with your agent, but will be directed to an “adjustor,” who has no personal relationship with you, and is only interested in minimizing the insurance company’s liability.
You don’t have to deal with your insurance company on your own. When you hire a personal injury attorney, you get an advocate who knows your rights, and has your best interests as a priority. Here are some tips for dealing with your insurer after a motor vehicle accident:
- Never sign anything without consulting your attorney—This is the most important advice you can get. You will likely be contacted by your insurer with an offer to settle. Frequently, the offer will be for far less than you need or to which you are entitled. Insurance companies understand that, in the aftermath of a car crash, your anxiety and stress level will be elevated, and that you will be more likely to accept a settlement, just to have matters behind you. Don’t fall prey to this tactic. If you run everything by your attorney, you won’t be taken advantage of by an insurance provider.
- Once you have hired counsel, direct all communication to your attorney—Your attorney is your liaison with insurers. When your agent or an adjustor calls, simply tell them they need to speak with counsel, and provide them the phone number.
- Don’t assume that you have no remedy if the other driver was without insurance—Chances are good that your policy had a provision for “uninsured or underinsured motorists” coverage. This means that, if you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your own insurer will provide additional benefits.
Contact Howard D. Popper, P.C., P.C.
Contact us online or call our office at 973-993-8787 to set up a free initial consultation. We have office locations in Morristown and Newton, but will visit you in your home or the hospital, if necessary.
We take all personal injury claims on a contingency basis. You will not incur legal fees unless attorney Popper recovers compensation for your losses.