After any car accident, you should speak with a lawyer before contacting your insurance company. Most personal injury law firms offer free case consultations where they can listen to what happened and then explain your legal options moving forward.
If you choose to hire aFort Myers car accident lawyer, they can provide you with several services, one of which is dealing with the insurance companies and their attorneys for you.
The Insurance Company Is a Business
If you received a call or letter from the insurance company after a car accident, there are some things you should consider before contacting them:
Adjusters Work for the Insurance Company
The insurance company and its representatives are not your friends trying to help you. They are a business. The adjusters work for the insurance company, not you.
What You Say Could Hurt Your Claim
Some of the most innocent and innocuous statements can have damaging effects on the strength of your claim. Saying you feel fine, that you’re sorry, or worse still, admitting any fault, can lead them to devalue, possibly deny, your claim.
Accepting a Low Settlement
As a business, the insurance company wants to make a profit like any other business. They will look for any opportunity to settle quickly for the lowest amount possible. Accepting a low settlement could mean you’re not fully compensated for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages, which is why it’s crucial to consult a lawyer before making any decisions.
Why Insurance Companies Act Quickly After a Crash
After an accident, insurance companies often try to contact you within days, sometimes even within hours. This isn’t a coincidence. They hope to catch you before:
- You understand the full extent of your injuries
- You speak with a lawyer.
- You realize how much your case may actually be worth.
This is a tactic meant to protect their bottom line. If they can convince you to accept a lowball offer early—before medical bills pile up or symptoms worsen—they limit their financial exposure.
Speaking with a Fort Myers car accident lawyer before engaging with the insurer ensures that you aren’t rushed into a settlement that doesn’t reflect the true value of your claim.
How a Lawyer in Fort Myers Can Help
If you have been in a car accident, you may not need to hire a lawyer, but you should still speak with one before you make that decision or speak with the insurers. However, you may be facing some complications that a lawyer could assist with, such as:
- Serious injuries
- Questions regarding fault
- Questions regarding settlement value
If you are feeling pressure from the insurance company, a lawyer can:
Protect Your Rights
Our lawyers are well-versed in the laws that can influence your car accident claim. They can protect your rights, ensuring that insurers don’t unfairly place blame on you for the accident (Florida Statutes § 768.81) and keeping your lawsuit options open and on track (Florida Statutes § 95.11).
Build Your Case and Determine Your Damages
A law firm will have the resources to investigate your accident and collect evidence, such as the police report, your medical records, and witness statements. They can compile this evidence and file insurance claims and court documents. They will also assess your current losses and, with the help of experts, your future needs.
Negotiate on Your Behalf
Once hired, our lawyers can speak on your behalf to the insurance companies and their adjusters so that you can avoid saying anything that could harm your claim. They also have the negotiating skills necessary to work toward a fair settlement.
Benefits of a Legal Consultation
Many car accident victims hesitate to contact a lawyer because they’re unsure if their case is “serious enough.” That’s exactly whya free consultation exists.
Here’s what happens during your consultation with our Fort Myers car accident attorney:
- We listen to your account of what happened
- We review any documentation you have (accident reports, photos, medical records)
- We explain whether you have a valid case.
- We go over the possible next steps, time limits, and potential compensation.
There is no pressure to hire us, and everything is 100% confidential. Our job is to help you make an informed decision, not to sell you on anything you don’t need. Your privacy and comfort are our top priorities.
Speak With Our Lawyer Before Talking With the Insurance Company
Before making that call to the insurance company, call The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato and speak with a member of our legal team. During your free case consultation, we can explain how ourFort Myers personal injury lawyer can assist you and your options. Remember, it’s always best to speak with a lawyer before engaging with the insurer to ensure you’re not rushed into a settlement that doesn’t reflect the true value of your claim.
Call(844) 643-7200 today. Get a Free Consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to talk to my own insurance company?
Yes, you generally must report the accident to your insurance provider, but you don’t have to go into full detail right away. It’s wise to speak with a lawyer before making any recorded statements.
What if the other driver’s insurance company keeps calling me?
You’re not required to speak to them. Politely inform them that you’re seeking legal representation. Once you hire a lawyer, all communication must go through them.
Can I still get help if I already talked to the insurer?
Yes. Even if you’ve spoken to the insurance company, an attorney can help protect your remaining rights, handle negotiations, and possibly undo damage done by early statements.