Did you know that insurance companies fear lawyers? Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize the amount of compensation or to deny claims altogether. These strategies, which focus on the bottom line over the well-being of accident victims, can cause injured persons to feel overwhelmed and vulnerable.
This is why the intervention of experienced car accident lawyers can turn the tables. This forces insurance companies to comply with the rules and protect the rights of those who have been wronged.
This article explores why insurance companies are apprehensive about dealing with experienced attorneys and how legal representation can alter the outcome of an insurance claim.
Understanding the Insurance Company Playbook
Insurance companies are businesses whose main objective is to make profits for their shareholders. According to industry analyses, insurance companies in the United States paid more than $1.2 trillion in premiums in 2019 alone, but their payout ratios often show a significant difference.
Some major insurers report payout ratios as low as 60%, which means that only 60 cents of each dollar of the premium paid is returned to policyholders as benefits. To do so, they may use different tactics to reduce or avoid the payment of claims, even if the evidence favours the accident victim.
Some common strategies used by insurance companies include:
- Lowball Settlement Offers
These offers often do not take into account the full extent of damages, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Delaying Tactics
The insurance company may deliberately delay the claim procedure in to hope that the injured party will become frustrated and accept a lower settlement to resolve the dispute. These tactics may include requests for unnecessary documentation, failure to reply to calls or emails, and dragging negotiations out.
- Denying Liability or Shifting Blame
Insurance companies may try to deny liability by claiming that the insured person was not at fault or that the injuries had already existed. In addition, they may try to transfer blame to the accident victim or a third party, which further complicates the claim process.
- Misrepresenting the Law or Policy Terms
To limit their liability or raise doubts about the validity of a claim, insurance adjusters may misrepresent the applicable laws or policy conditions. This tactic can cause accident victims to become confused and uncertain about their legal rights and options.
The Power of Car Accident Lawyers
When car accident lawyers intervene in these cases, they bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and negotiating power to the table, effectively countering the tactics employed by insurance companies.
Here’s why insurance companies fear the involvement of these legal professionals…
1. Skilled Negotiators and Litigators
Personal injury lawyers are experienced negotiators and litigators capable of navigating a complex legal environment and advocating for their client’s rights.
They understand the tactics used by insurance companies and have the expertise to effectively combat them, ensuring that their clients receive the compensation they deserve.
2. Comprehensive Case Evaluation
Car accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations and case evaluations and gather evidence to support their clients’ claims. They work together with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and other experts to create a strong case and accurately assess the full extent of damage, including future costs and non-economic losses.
3. Knowledge of the Law and Policy Terms
Car accident lawyers have an in-depth knowledge of the relevant legislation and the terms of the insurance policy to ensure the protection of their client’s rights and that insurance companies do not misrepresent or manipulate the terms to their advantage.
4. Willingness to Litigate
While car accident lawyers are always trying to reach a fair settlement through negotiation, they are prepared to go to court if the insurance company refuses to offer reasonable compensation. This willingness to litigate can serve as a strong deterrent, forcing insurance companies to take the claims of their clients seriously and negotiate in good faith.
The Impact on Insurance Companies
Insurance companies encounter significant challenges to their standard operating procedures when car accident lawyers intervene:
- Increased Financial Liability:
Insurance companies can no longer rely solely on their usual tactics to minimize payouts or reject claims. Due to the legal knowledge of experienced lawyers, they may have to agree to larger settlements or face the risk of costly litigation and possible adverse judgments.
- Forced Accountability:
The presence of skilled car accident lawyers compels insurers to adhere to higher standards of responsibility. This shift contributes to preventing the use of unethical or illegal tactics.
- Promoting fair practices:
The involvement of legal experts in accident cases ensures a more transparent procedure for claims, which benefits victims and promotes a fairer and more equitable system overall.
FAQs
Do I need a car accident lawyer if the insurance company has already offered a settlement?
Even if the insurance company has offered a settlement, it is advisable to consult with a car accident lawyer before accepting. These lawyers can evaluate the offer and determine if it accurately reflects the true value of your claim, taking into account all current and future damages.
Can an insurance company deny my claim if I don’t have a car accident lawyer?
Insurance companies may be more likely to deny or underpay claims when the claimant is not represented by a lawyer. Having an experienced car accident lawyer on your side demonstrates that you are serious about protecting your rights and are prepared to take legal action if necessary.
How long does the insurance claims process typically take with a car accident lawyer involved?
The duration of the insurance claims process can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate in good faith.
Car accident lawyers are skilled at navigating the process efficiently and can often expedite the resolution of claims by applying pressure and leveraging their expertise.
Insurance Companies Fear Lawyers Conclusion
In the case of a car accident, the intervention of a qualified car accident lawyer can be a game-changer. These legal professionals oppose the tactics used by insurance companies and advocate for the rights of their clients.
They can help to level the playing field and ensure that accident victims receive the compensation they deserve. Thanks to their knowledge, experience, and willingness to litigate, the best car accident lawyers create fear in insurance companies, forcing them to comply with the rules and prioritize fairness over profits.
