Tips for Dealing with Insurance Companies

Talking with insurance companies after filing a personal injury case can be stressful. They give you the runaround and attempt to give you reasons why they can't offer you a settlement. If they offer a settlement, it's usually a lowball offer. You need to recover from your automobile accident, but you also have bills to pay. Here are some tips for dealing with insurance companies:

• Gather Evidence: The more evidence you gather the better your chances are of reaching a settlement. Take pictures, gather police reports, medical records, repair estimates, and any other documentation that supports your claim.

• Communicate Clearly: What you say can be used against you to deny your claim. Be sure not to say anything that can be used to show negligence on your part or harm the value of your case. Do not admit fault ever and do not make accusations.

• Keep Records of Everything: Keep strict records of every conversation, every doctor's visit, medical diagnosis, repair estimate, and police report you can. This will keep you organized and provide you with the evidence you need to win your case.

• Don't Sign Documents Without an Attorney: Insurance adjusters will pressure you into signing documents. Be wary of this. They are often documents that may be where you admit partial fault or give up legal rights to go to court. Retain a personal injury attorney to review all documents that you are asked to sign. This ensures that you are never signing something that may unknowingly harm you.