After an accident that has left you with damaged property, it can be overwhelming to deal with insurance adjusters who need to put a value on the damage done to your property. Most people don’t really know how the insurance valuation system works, and they are not sure how to get all of the compensation they are owed for their property.
This guide will outline some common mistakes people make when dealing with insurance adjusters. A personal injury attorney can help you avoid these mistakes and guide you through the claims process so that you are given the full value of any property that was damaged in the accident.
Some of the biggest mistakes that people make when dealing with property insurance adjusters are:
Providing a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice
Any statement that you make that is recorded can be used against you to minimize the payout that you receive. You must be very careful in the words that you choose so that your words don’t accidentally cost you money. You should consult with an attorney before providing a recorded statement to insurance adjusters because an attorney can help you understand how the claims process works.
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
You should never accept the first settlement offer that an insurance company makes. The insurance company will almost always offer a lowball settlement that they can deliver quickly hoping that you will accept a quick low settlement instead of fighting for the amount of money that you actually deserve. Always consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer.
Not Documenting Everything
Documentation is critically important in an insurance negotiation. Always document any conversations or interactions you have with the insurance company. If you can, keep all communications in emails or text messages so that you can have those as proof of the conversations.
If not, write down on a piece of paper the date and time of each phone conversation and what was discussed. Also make sure that you document the scene of the accident, any damages causes, and any injuries that occur as a result.
Signing Documents Without Understanding Them
Insurance companies use a lot of difficult to understand language, and sometimes people sign documents without understanding what they are agreeing to. Always make sure that you fully understand any legal document before you sign it. It’s a good idea to have a lawyer working with you that can help you understand the language in a document before you sign it.
Delaying Your Claim
Most states have a statute of limitations on insurance claims. That means if you don’t file your claim within a set amount of time you lose the legal right to file a claim. Don’t wait to file your claim. Speak with an attorney in your state to find out what the statute of limitations is in your state.
The Importance of Legal Guidance
Getting legal guidance is essential when you’re dealing with property insurance adjusters and insurance companies. A lawyer can help you prove negligence of liability, advocate on your behalf, help you understand any legal documents and the legal process, and help you get all of the compensation you deserve.
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