Did you know that insurance companies have tricks to pay you less money after a crash? It’s true! They might act friendly, but their real job is to save money by paying you as little as possible. Here’s how to protect yourself.
Trick #1: The Fast, Small Money Offer
Watch out when they offer you money right away. They want you to take it before you know how badly you’re hurt. Once you say yes and sign their papers, you can’t ask for more money later – even if you find out you’re hurt worse than you thought!
Trick #2: Even Worse Than Trick #1
Insurance companies can hold you to an agreement without you signing anything! That’s right, when the insurance company calls right away after the wreck and when you don’t even know the extent of your injuries, a case called Gilbert v. Fitz says that any settlement statement that you make over the phone can be enforceable – even without you signing anything! This is a scum-bag, insurance adjuster trick to catch you when you are the most vulnerable.
Trick #3: The “Just Tell Us What Happened” Trap
They might ask to record you talking about the crash. They’ll say it’s normal, but it’s actually a trap! They can use your own words against you to pay you less. This is true even when you are telling the truth! The insurance company is “not on your side and they are definitely not “a good neighbor”. Talk to a lawyer first.
Trick #4: Taking Forever to Pay
Some insurance companies take a really long time to answer you. They hope you’ll get tired of waiting and take less money. Don’t give up! A lawyer can help speed things up.
Trick #5: Saying “You’re Not Really Hurt”
Insurance companies might say your injuries aren’t bad or try to blame them on something else. This is why you need to see a doctor right away. Do Not Delay Treatment! Your doctor’s notes prove you’re really hurt.
Trick #5: Telling You Not to Get a Lawyer
When they say “You don’t need a lawyer,” that’s a big red flag! They know lawyers help people get more money. It has been proven that injured people get significantly more money once they hire a lawyer versus trying to do it themselves. They don’t want that!
What You Should Do
Remember: Insurance companies want to save money, not help you. Before you talk to them, talk to a lawyer who will fight for you. If you’ve been in a crash, we’re here to help – and talking to us is free!
Contact us today to protect yourself from these insurance company tricks.