After an accident, you’re likely already dealing with the stress of painful injuries and money worries. During this time, insurance adjusters may try to question you about the crash. Their goal is to protect their bottom line, not yours. Acar accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help you avoid unfair insurer tactics during this difficult time.
Why Shouldn’t You Talk to an Insurance Company Without a Lawyer?
In Florida, themodified comparative negligence laws mean that if you are more than 50% at fault, then you may be barred from recovering compensation. If you hold any fault, your compensation is reduced by that percentage.
Insurance companies may ask leading questions or try to get you to admit fault so they can reduce your settlement amount. Even a comment as simple as “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Having an insurance claim lawyer in Fort Lauderdale present during any conversations ensures that your legal rights are protected.
What Common Tactics Do Insurance Companies Use?
In addition to trying to get injury victims to admit fault, insurance companies use other tactics to avoid giving fair compensation. They may try to pressure you into giving a recorded statement about the accident, which can then be used against you.
They may also offer a quick settlement, in the hopes that you’ll take less than you’re owed. Having apersonal injury attorney in Fort Lauderdale review any settlement offers will help you understand whether your losses are being fully covered. Quick settlements typically don’t account for the long-term impact of your injuries.
When speaking to insurers on your own, you may:
- Unknowingly make statements that downplay the seriousness of your injuries
- Accidentally waive legal rights
How Can a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
Your lawyer is your legal advocate during the entirety of your case. They will:
- Handle all communication with the insurance company.
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
- File yourlawsuit on time, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- Consult with experts as needed.
- Negotiate for fair compensation, including coverage for pain and suffering, future medical expenses, and diminished earning capacity.
- Protect you from any unfair tactics.
- Represent you in court if necessary.
Is It Ever Safe to Talk to the Insurance Company on Your Own?
Generally, it is best to avoid doing so. However, if you must speak with them, follow these tips:
- Keep your statements factual and brief.
- Never hypothesize or guess what may have been going on during the crash.
- Avoid giving recorded statements or discussing your injuries if your attorney is not present.
What Should You Do If an Insurance Adjuster Contacts You?
If an insurer reaches out directly to you, you should:
- Politely, but firmly, decline to discuss details.
- Take their contact information.
- Reach out to a personal injury lawyer, so they can handle all future communications.
Contact the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato
If you or a loved one has been injured, an injury attorney in Fort Lauderdale can seekfair compensation for your family. At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we pride ourselves on our dedication to our clients’ needs.
Call us at (844) 643-7200 to get started on your case with a free consultation.