If you’re in an accident, the first thing you must do is seek medical attention. Once the initial confusion and commotion have died down, it’s wise to file an insurance claim. You could file a claim yourself or hire a DUI injury accident lawyer to file one for you.
Your chances of receiving a fair settlement are higher if you choose the latter. An experienced lawyer like Jarrett Blakeley understands the process well, and Blakeley Law Firm will settle for nothing less than what you deserve.
If your adjuster advises you to not contact a lawyer and promises to make the claims process easy for you, don’t believe him/her! Here’s why:
• Insurance Companies Delay the Process:
This is one of the oldest tricks in the book. Adjusters draw out the claims process so long that you either give up the claim entirely or settle for a low amount. The statute of limitation for car-accident claims is three years in Florida. In some instances, adjusters can draw out the process to the point where statutes of limitation can be invoked, thereby causing the aggrieved party to lose their right to sue or file for compensation.
• Insurance Companies Can Use Your Statement Against You:
A seemingly innocent answer could be taken out of context and used against you. It’s not uncommon for insurance adjusters to get statements from all the key parties. We advise you not to give a statement to any insurance company without first hiring representation, it’s best to wait; sometimes, injuries aren’t evident until a day or two after the accident. You are well within your rights to delay the process. While you wait, use the time to speak with a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer. We prepare you for your statement.
• Insurance Companies Deny Liability:
When accidents involve multiple parties, adjusters try to pass the buck—they blame the accident on everyone but the party they’re representing. With everyone trying to pin the blame on each other, filing a lawsuit is all but required in some situations if you want to protect your rights.
Also, insurance adjusters will look at your medical history to see if there are any health issues that could be causing the injuries and pains you’re associating with the car accident. To deny your claim, insurance companies could blame you for the accident or argue that you in some way contributed to the accident.
Jarrett Blakeley is a friendly Fort Lauderdale injury lawyer, one offering to help individuals with the claims process. The first consultation is free, and you don’t have to pay us unless we obtain a favorable settlement for you!