You Were in an Accident. The Insurance Adjuster Is Calling. Now What?
Many people injured in car accidents have never been in this position before. They know they need help. Their car insurance policy should cover the cost of medical and financial damages, but the process is complicated, and there is no indication how serious the injuries and financial damages might be. Now the insurance adjuster is calling with a settlement offer.
At Colwell, Colwell & Petroccione, LLP, we talk to people every day who face the dilemma of how to handle a settlement offer from an insurance adjuster following a motor vehicle accident. Many are tempted to just take the money and put the matter behind them. Settling early with an insurance adjuster can turn out to be one of the biggest financial mistakes a negligence victim can make.
If you were recently in a motor vehicle accident and the insurance adjuster calls, here are some common sense steps to take that can protect your legal rights and put you in the best position possible for full and fair compensation:
- Retain a lawyer: Having a lawyer on your side puts you on a level field with the large insurance corporation. The insurance adjuster is paid to offer the lowest dollar amount possible — as soon as possible — to get you to forfeit any further claims for monetary damages, in the event your injuries are serious and involve extensive medical treatment.
- Tell the adjuster that you are represented by legal counsel: Under the law, the adjuster is required to work only through your attorney. That means you will be free of the hassles and pressure you would be under otherwise. It also means you will be free of the temptation to accept a low-ball settlement, just to put the matter behind you.
- Stay in contact with your attorney: At Colwell, Colwell & Petroccione, we make sure our clients are well informed and understand every legal option available to them. We have the professional and financial resources to fight aggressively until your case is resolved with maximum monetary damages. We don't let the insurance company bully you around. When we prepare a case for settlement negotiations, the insurance company knows we come prepared to win in court, if trial becomes necessary.
Schenectady Car Accident Attorneys · Free Consultation · Contingency Fees
If you were injured in a car accident in New York, pursue all legal recourse to obtain appropriate compensation benefits, but don't assume the benefits will cover your losses.
We believe anyone facing a legal problem deserves straight answers. Begin taking back control of your life after a serious accident. Contact our Albany vehicle insurance accident claims attorneys at Colwell, Colwell & Petroccione, LLP, today. You can benefit from a free consultation with no risk whatsoever.
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