There are an average of 9.46 fatalities per year per 100,000 in the state of Minnesota. Our harsh winters not only wreak havoc on the roads, but they can bring down power lines and damage homes. If you have been injured, make sure to call the personal injury lawyers at 612-INJURED and read our guide below.
Apologizing to the Insurance Company
In Minnesota, we have a reputation for being polite. When you are dealing with an insurance company, you may pay the price for being overly courteous. It may be a good idea to go against the stereotype when talking to an insurance adjuster. There are pretty severe legal consequences for apologizing, and apologizing may mean that you do not get a favorable settlement.
It doesn’t matter if you are saying sorry to express regret over the situation or to empathize with another victim. When you say sorry to an insurance company, they will take that and run with it. When you are dealing with an insurance company, try to avoid admitting guilt. It is up to the insurance company to prove that you were responsible.
When you make it easy for them, you are leaving money on the table. You could use this compensation for medical bills and to help you heal.
Settling Too Quickly
Insurance companies want to wrap your case up very quickly. Economically, it does not make sense for them to let the claim drag. Many medical problems can persist for months, years, or even a lifetime. In some situations, symptoms of injuries may not even show up for a while after the accident.
It is not a good idea to accept the first claim that you are given. This is the lowest amount that they think you will take. You are going to want to go to a physician to make sure that your medical condition is clear. When you settle quickly, you may lose the opportunity to sue.
Being Dishonest
After an incident, whether it is a car wreck, medical malpractice, or anything else, the insurance company is going to conduct an investigation. They will be poring over medical records and bills, looking into facts, and trying to get a clear picture of the whole story. It is incredibly unlikely that you will get away with a lie.
If you have to speak to an insurance adjuster, it may prove valuable to stick to the facts. It might be even more useful to not say too much at all. Exaggerating injuries or the extent of damage could mean that a judge will rule against you.
Not Hiring a Lawyer
All insurance companies work the same way. Insurance companies care about their bottom line, and the only way that they can remain profitable is paying as little money as possible. When you are dealing with them on your own, you are going against a business that has years of experience, all the technology they could ever need at their fingertips, and very few good intentions.
Having an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side makes a massive difference if you have an insurance claim. They will know what to do to make sure that you are being compensated fairly. An attorney can tell you what you should and should not be saying to the insurance company.
If you have any questions, get in contact with a Minneapolis personal injury lawyer. Call or text us at (612) 465-8733 today for a free consultation.