Personal injury cases can be pretty stressful and traumatic. First, you have the injury to deal with, which is hard enough. Often, you have property damage to address, such as when your car is damaged or totaled in an accident. Then, to top it off, you have insurance adjusters calling, medical appointments to attend, paperwork, and legal questions. You are not alone if you are in a similar situation and find all of these issues somewhat overwhelming.
For many, one of the most confusing parts of handling a personal injury claim is understanding insurance and how it plays into the whole set of circumstances. While the insurance industry benefits society in many ways, an insurance company’s objectives do not always align with yours. In this blog, we will address some statements you may hear from an insurance company representative and why you need to be careful if you do.
“This is routine paperwork you need to sign.”
Did you know that you can give up all your claim if you sign the wrong kind of paper? If you are still getting familiar with contracts and legal terms, it is easy to make mistakes. While some documents are necessary for less severe things, why take a chance and sign something you might need help understanding? Let a lawyer look it over.
“Direct any questions to us.”
Insurance companies often want to do an excellent job with their insureds. The problem is that the insurance company and the injured victim sometimes have adverse interests. Plus, it might be someone other than the insurance company calling you. Insurance companies generally exist to sell a product and maximize their profits. On the other hand, personal injury victims want total compensation for their injuries, which is often more than the insurance company wants to pay. Thus, asking them how to proceed is not wise.
“You Are Required to Give a Recorded Statement.”
This one may or may not be accurate. It depends on whether your insurance company or the other party’s insurance company is asking, and what the insurance contracts say. So, the first question is, who is asking for the recorded statement? Second, even if a comment is required, it makes good sense to talk to a lawyer first so that you know your obligations and understand the types of questions you will be asked and what the issues in your case might be. We are not suggesting that you avoid an obligation – instead, you should be prepared for it.
“An Attorney Won’t Add Any Value to Your Case.”
Why would an insurance representative recommend that you do not hire an attorney? Probably because they think the insurance company will pay less if you don’t. Here are just a few of the benefits that an experienced personal injury firm like Nelson MacNeil Rayfield brings to the table:
- Experience from handling scores of cases all over Oregon for many years. We have the experience and knowledge necessary to deal with insurance companies and adjusters.
- We understand how a jury will evaluate a case if a trial is necessary. That makes it easier to reach a fair settlement.
- We know how to evaluate liability, and how that relates to the value of your case.
- We understand insurance law and how multiple policies can work together. But, sometimes, these circumstances can be complicated.
- We understand both substantive and procedural law. Insurance companies have lawyers helping them –in some cases, you should, too.
Call with Questions
The experienced, compassionate lawyers at Nelson MacNeil Rayfield are here to answer all your questions in a free consultation about your personal injury case. Then, we will be here if you need someone in your corner. It is imperative to hold all negligent people responsible for their actions so that all of society will be safer.