Insurance Questions After A Car Wreck With Injuries?

Before speaking with any insurance adjuster, determine which company they represent. It is important to remember that the other driver’s insurer evaluates claims on behalf of its insured – therefore, they do not have your best interests at heart.

You are generally under no obligation to give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement before consulting an attorney. A conversation regarding your injuries or how the crash happened can all become part of the company’s evaluation, even if information is still being gathered. They may attempt to use this against you by taking certain factors out of context, which can negatively affect your claim.

Your own insurer is a different story. Your policy may require prompt notice and cooperation to move the claim forward. While you should not ignore these obligations, it is recommended that you consult with a trusted attorney so you understand the nature of the request and how to respond appropriately.

What If I’ve Already Spoken With The Insurance Company?

If you’ve already spoken with the insurance company, that does not automatically put your claim in jeopardy. However, it is important to write down who contacted you, what you discussed, and whether the conversation was recorded. You should also save emails, letters, claim numbers, and any other correspondence.

For any future communication, if you do not know an answer, say so instead of guessing. Always take your attorney’s advice on when to show restraint when it comes to providing information.

Before signing a medical authorization, your lawyer can help you understand which records it permits the insurer to obtain. Together, you can also review whether the request is actually tied to information relevant to your claim.

Every early offer should be carefully reviewed, especially if you are still receiving treatment. You may not yet know whether additional appointments, rehabilitation, or more time away from work may be necessary.

Your attorney can assess what the payment covers and if accepting it requires releasing your injury claim. A final settlement and release generally prevent you from seeking additional compensation from the released parties for that claim – even if your condition drastically declines later or is more costly than expected.

Mullins & Blake Attorneys can compare an offer with the documented effects of your injuries and explain what accepting the settlement would mean. In the end, the decision to settle always remains yours to make.

Get The Help You Need With Your Insurance Claim

Don’t decide whether an offer is reasonable based on only an adjuster’s explanation. Mullins & Blake Attorneys can help review insurance communications, identify potentially available coverage, and help you evaluate the next best course of action to take.

To learn more about how we can help, contact our Springdale, Rogers, or Fort Smith office at (479) 227-3060, or use our contact form to request a free consultation before responding to a settlement offer.