There are times when speaking with your insurance company can be frustrating after you’ve been injured in an accident. It’s not unusual for insurance companies to be nice and polite until you have a claim that needs to be filed, only for them to reject your claim or try to use your words against you to avoid giving you the compensation you deserve. Knowing how to communicate with them at the outset can make the conversation go a little smoother.
Have Your Information Handy
Ideally, you will be familiar with the fine print in your insurance policy. You will know what you are covered for and what may not be covered. When it’s time to make a claim, have your information at hand. The insurance company will need to know your policy number.
Just the Facts
If you’ve been in a car accident, it can be tempting to recount the entire story, complete with speculations and he said, she said, but, when communicating with your insurance company, you want to stick to the facts. Answer their questions truthfully and only say what needs to be said. To do otherwise is to risk making the situation more complicated than it needs to be.
Do Not Assume Blame
“I’m sorry” are not words you want to say to your insurance company. Stick with the facts about the accident. There will be investigators who will make an assessment of the accident. Leave it to them to decide who is at fault and to what degree. It could turn out you are not as much to blame as you think you are. Also, admitting blame could raise your insurance rates, or, if you are entitled to a settlement, you could get less if you have assumed any blame.
Fair Compensation
It is not unusual for an insurance company to want to settle for as little as possible. This is where you may need some help. Your insurance company may balk a little, so be prepared. After an accident, it is important you be examined by a doctor right away. The insurance company may also want you to be seen by a doctor they work with. Any claims you have regarding injury must be documented by a reputable doctor.
Document Communication with Your Insurance Company
Keep track of every person you’ve spoken to, when, and about what. Write everything down so you have clear documentation of all communication. It is also wise to follow up conversations with letters or emails so you have a paper trail. Keep in mind that even as you are documenting all that is said and done, your insurance company is doing the same, so keep your conversation and correspondence professional. Avoid being petty, sounding uncooperative or saying things you may regret later. Miscommunication can result in delays and a less-than-desired outcome for you.
Call Us When in Doubt
It can be difficult to handle all that needs to be done when you or a loved one has sustained injuries in an accident. The lawyers at Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., are adept at handling personal injury cases. You can depend on us to provide personal, compassionate service. One of our lawyers would be happy to sit down with you for a complimentary consultation. When you’re in doubt, it’s best to call our team – when we take on clients, we also take on all future correspondence with insurance companies so you have ones less thing to worry about.
Call (941) 979-9010 or contact us online for dedicated service from a team of experienced trial attorneys. Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A. have guided countless injured clients successfully towards recovery through our advocacy work and offer free consultations.