If you were injured or sustained damages after an accident, you may have a valid insurance claim. It can be tempting to negotiate with the insurance company on your own to save money, but it is not generally recommended. Read on and speak with a New York injury lawyer for more information and skilled representation.
Can I Negotiate with the Insurance Company on My Own?
Yes, you are allowed to negotiate with the insurance company on your own after sustaining injuries or damages in an accident. If the accident and resulting damages are relatively minor, you may be able to successfully negotiate with either your insurance provider or the negligent party’s. However, it is not recommended that you take on this task by yourself.
Why Shouldn’t I Contact the Insurance Company?
While you have the right to represent yourself in negotiations, it may not be the most profitable choice for you. Personal injury law can be complex and insurance providers are notorious for using tactics to pay out the least amount possible. Because insurance companies prioritize turning a profit, if you negotiate on your own you could end up accepting a settlement that is thousands of dollars less than what you rightfully deserve.
Insurance companies generally want you to forgo legal representation as it allows them to take advantage of you. Without help from an experienced attorney, you could underestimate the value of your claim, miss an important deadline, succumb to pressure to sign the agreement early, or make any number of errors. Protecting your legal rights and options is the most important thing during insurance claims. When you accept a settlement agreement, you are waiving your right to pursue further legal action and compensation. Before signing it is important to ensure that you have gotten the best deal possible.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
If you were injured in an accident and are submitting an insurance claim, the best way to protect your interests is by securing the help of an experienced lawyer. There are many ways that an attorney can help, including the following.
- Understanding of the law: Your lawyer will understand personal injury and insurance laws as well as your rights and the negotiation strategies that will work best. They will also have experience with insurance companies and understand what tactics are being implemented and how to counter them.
- Compensation: Individuals who are represented by legal professionals generally receive higher amounts of compensation than those who are not. Your lawyer will understand how to evaluate the value of your claim and negotiate for the compensation you deserve.
- Relieve stress: Negotiating an insurance settlement on your own can be stressful and time-consuming. You have to deal with the negotiations on top of going to school or work, caring for your family, etc. Hiring a lawyer can help take the issue off your plate and allow you to focus on recovering and returning to your daily life.
Hiring a skilled attorney during insurance negotiations is always recommended. For more information on the benefits offered, reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer today.
