After a car accident, one of the first steps you will take is dealing with insurance companies—both your own and the other driver’s. While insurance is supposed to provide financial protection, insurers often prioritize their own profits over your best interests. Many accident victims make mistakes when speaking with adjusters, which can result in reduced compensation or even claim denial.
Understanding how insurance companies operate, common tactics they use, and how to protect your rights is essential. At The Law Office of Don Edwards, we help car accident victims navigate insurance negotiations to secure the compensation they deserve.
Understanding How Insurance Companies Operate
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and close claims as quickly as possible. No matter how friendly they may seem, their goal is to settle your claim for as little money as possible.
Some of the most common tactics used by insurance companies include:
- Offering a quick, low settlement before the full extent of injuries is known
- Delaying claims processing to frustrate the victim into accepting a lower offer
- Disputing liability to shift blame onto the victim
- Requesting a recorded statement to use the victim’s words against them
- Downplaying medical injuries by arguing that they were pre-existing or not serious
Accident victims should be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters and avoid accepting any settlement offers without consulting an attorney. Learn more about how evidence impacts personal injury claims in The Importance of Evidence in Personal Injury Cases.
Steps to Take When Dealing with Insurance Companies
1. Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately
Most insurance policies require drivers to report accidents within a reasonable time. Delaying notification can be used as a reason to deny the claim. When reporting the accident:
- Stick to basic facts (location, date, and time of the accident)
- Do not admit fault or make speculative statements
- Avoid discussing injuries until a full medical evaluation is complete
If the insurance company requests a recorded statement, politely decline and consult an attorney first.
2. Document Everything
Keeping a detailed record of all interactions with the insurance company is crucial. Maintain copies of:
- Accident reports
- Medical bills and records
- Emails and letters from insurance adjusters
- Any settlement offers
Photographs and witness statements are also valuable in proving liability and maximizing your compensation. More on what evidence to collect after an accident is available in Steps to Take Immediately After a Personal Injury Accident.
3. Be Cautious When Discussing Your Injuries
Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of injuries by arguing that:
- The injuries were pre-existing
- The victim is exaggerating pain
- Medical treatment was unnecessary
To prevent these arguments from harming your claim, seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations from your doctor. Never sign a medical records release without speaking to an attorney.
4. Do Not Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies intentionally offer low settlements early in the claims process, hoping victims will accept without knowing the full extent of their damages. Accepting a quick settlement waives your right to seek additional compensation later.
It is important to calculate the full value of your claim, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering damages
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Insurance adjusters are skilled at convincing victims that their case is worth less than it actually is. A car wreck lawyer Atlanta ensures that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Common Insurance Company Tactics and How to Counter Them
Claim Denial Without Justification
Some insurers deny claims outright, hoping the victim will give up rather than fight back. If your claim is denied without explanation, request a written denial letter outlining the specific reasons for rejection.
An attorney can challenge unfair denials by gathering additional evidence and negotiating with the insurer.
Blaming the Victim for the Accident
Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning compensation is reduced if the victim is found partially at fault for the accident. Insurance companies often use this to their advantage, arguing that the victim was speeding, distracted, or failed to avoid the collision.
To counter these claims:
- Provide police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction analysis
- Never accept fault or responsibility when speaking with adjusters
- Let your attorney handle all liability disputes
More information about how fault is determined in accidents can be found in How to Prove Fault in a Trucking Accident.
Using Delays to Pressure Victims
Insurance companies may delay claims processing by ignoring calls, requesting excessive documentation, or dragging out investigations. This is a common tactic to pressure victims into accepting lower settlements.
A legal demand letter from an attorney can often speed up the process and force the insurer to act in good faith.
Why Hiring a Car Crash Attorney is Crucial
Navigating insurance negotiations alone can be overwhelming. Without legal representation, victims risk settling for less than they deserve or having their claim denied altogether.
An attorney can:
- Handle all communication with insurance adjusters
- Gather and present evidence to strengthen your claim
- Negotiate a fair settlement to cover all damages
- Take the case to court if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable amount
Attorney Don Edwards has successfully represented car accident victims in Georgia for decades. Learn more about his approach on the Auto Trucking Collisions Services page.
Take Action to Protect Your Claim
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be stressful and frustrating, but you do not have to handle it alone. With the right legal guidance, you can protect your rights and secure the full compensation you are entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact The Law Office of Don Edwards today for a free consultation. Our team is committed to fighting for maximum compensation so that you can focus on recovery.
When you need the best personal injury attorney, trust The Law Office of Don Edwards to stand up for your rights.
