In several previous posts, we warned people about accepting a settlement from an insurance company without consulting an attorney. The offer may seem high, and personal injury victims may need money to cover their lost wages and medical bills. This is why people are inclined to accept a settlement check. However, there is no way to determine the actual value of your claim without having an experienced attorney access it. Insurance companies do not represent you in the way an attorney does. Their offer is in their best interest rather than yours.
Today, we will examine how an insurance company fits into the overall process. If you are in a car accident, you will have interactions and communications with insurance providers. Ideally, you should contact a personal injury attorney as soon as you are well enough to do so. Because of this, you will have an advocate to support and advise you throughout the process. The following is to inform you what type of involvement you can expect from the insurance company following an injury.
What Happens After the Accident?
Insurance companies can approach personal injury cases in various ways, but everything we are about to discuss is typical. For example, imagine that someone is in a car accident. After receiving medical treatment and ensuring their safety, this person will report the accident to their insurance company. Texas requires that all drivers have at least $30,000 of coverage for injuries (per person), up to $60,000 per accident. Additionally, they must possess $25,000 in property damage. This is referred to as 30/60/25. Because Texas is an “at-fault” state, the driver responsible for the accident is also liable for the damages. Texas drivers also carry a minimum of $2,500 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
After the insurance company has been notified, they assign an adjuster to investigate the claim. The adjuster’s role is to gather information, review key documents such as police and medical reports, and speak with people involved in or witnessed the accident. Because we mentioned reports, remember how important it is to contact the police and get medical treatment following an injury.
What is No-Fault?
In no-fault states, the drivers file claims with their respective insurance companies. There are no-fault laws that limit your ability to file a lawsuit against the person that caused the accident. We have established that this does not apply to Texas. If your injuries are more extensive than a typical 30/60/25 can cover, you can file a lawsuit to recover more.
Before that happens, the insurance company has to evaluate the damages you suffered due to the car accident. They will look at lost wages, medical bills, damage to your car, and pain and suffering. Insurance companies have their methods of determining how much to offer you. When they arrive at a number, they will make a settlement offer. There is no guarantee that the money they offer will fully cover the tangible and intangible damages you endured.
It Is Paramount that You Have A Personal Injury Attorney
One of the reasons why we are an asset during your personal injury case is because we used to work for insurance companies. After we analyze the details associated with your injuries, we understand how to evaluate settlement offers to determine whether they are fair and reasonable. Then, we will advise you whether you should accept it. If they refuse to negotiate for a higher, more reasonable amount, we have extensive trial experience and will represent you in court. Contact Beaty Legal, PLLC, and schedule a free consultation to speak further about personal injuries and negotiating with insurance companies.
