Oftentimes, when we are involved in an accident, the most difficult part of the process is dealing with the insurance companies. Unfortunately for many, dealing with insurance companies can be so overwhelming that it overpowers what really matters: recovering from the accident both physically and emotionally.
After an accident takes place, one of the first steps is to call your insurance company. When an individual deals with an insurance company on their own, the company often fails to properly cooperate with them, causing people to relinquish their case to settlement just to end the process. This usually results in a lower payout than what was deserved. Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always have your best interest in mind, and if they are not cooperating with you following an accident, there are things you can do to help.
Get a Second Opinion
Without knowing the inner workings of the insurance company, it can be hard to determine whether their actions are meant to help you or to hurt you. Getting a second opinion will help make this clear. A second opinion is best given by a local attorney, who can take a look at the actions of your insurance company and determine whether they are being sincere and working in your best interest.
Enlist the Help of an Attorney
If it is determined that the insurance company is, in fact, not working in your best interest, the best thing you can do is hire an attorney. Although an unfortunate fact, many insurance companies will unfairly treat clients when there is no legal threat against them. Without a lawyer on your side, the insurance company knows they have a better chance of paying out less money and settling the case to their benefit. As soon as you hire a lawyer, you will see the tides change and have a much better chance of getting the settlement you deserve.
Stand Trial
This may not always happen, as most cases do not end up at trial. But for those who do, know that it is for your benefit. During the course of the lawsuit, your attorney will likely attend various hearings and proceedings on your behalf—all of which you will not have to attend. If your case does go to a jury, you will be required to go to court. This isn’t a bad thing though: a jury is likely to side with the defendant rather than the insurance company and because of this, many insurance companies will settle before the case reaches a jury.
If you have been involved in an accident and your insurance company is giving you the run around, contact the trusted attorneys at Stewart & Stewart. Give us a call at 1-800-33-33-LAW or visit our website for more information.