Why You Shouldn’t Talk to the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer
The insurance company is committed to minimizing payouts to maximize its profits. If you choose to talk to the insurance company without a lawyer, you may give them an opportunity to later twist your words or take your statement out of context. Sadly, a claims adjuster will take any opening to undermine your claim, justifying any inferior settlement they offer you. To recover fair compensation following your accident or injury, do not hesitate to contact our Nashville personal injury attorneys at Bednarz & Bednarz.
You May Be Pressured into Providing a Recorded Statement
Once you notify the insurance company of your injuries, a claims adjuster may ask you to provide a recorded statement. Do not provide one. This request will be made before you have time to understand the extent of your injuries. You are not legally obligated to provide a statement to your insurer, so decline to do so until you speak with an attorney.
You May Be Asked to Sign a Broad Medical Authorization Form
In order for insurance to understand the scope of your injuries, they must have access to relevant medical records. However, insurance may ask you to sign a blanket medical authorization form. This will give the insurer access to the full extent of your medical records, to which they are not entitled. By having unlimited access, your insurer is more likely to claim that your injuries were due to a previous accident or pre-existing condition. This is why you should only release medical records regarding your accident, but never before speaking with experienced counsel.
Insurance May Fail to Promptly Investigate Your Claim
Under the Tennessee Compilation of Rules and Regulations, insurance companies must acknowledge your claim within 30 days of receiving proof of loss. A prompt investigation must be conducted thereafter, and insurance must respond to any written communications from the insured within 30 days as well. A failure to adhere to these regulations is evidence of unfair claims practices. Unfortunately, claims adjusters are more likely to bend the rules when you bypass legal representation.
You May Accept a Lowball Settlement
Insurance companies often use delay tactics to avoid paying on your claim. By the time they get around to offering you a settlement, your medical bills may be significant, with more on the way. This financial distress can lead you to accept the first settlement offer, even if it barely covers your medical bills. Worse yet, by the time you are aware of the full extent of your injuries, you may have already signed a release agreement. This release form will bar you from further compensation pertaining to your claim.
You May Miss the Statute of Limitations
Insurance claims are known to be drawn out, taking several weeks or months to settle. If you do not have representation during settlement negotiations, the insurance company is more likely to extend this aspect further. The state of Tennessee only gives injured parties one year to take legal action following a personal injury or accident. This short limitation period makes it necessary to have legal guidance from the get-go to understand your options.
Speak with Our Nashville Personal Injury Lawyers
If you or a family member has been harmed due to another’s oversight, they should be responsible for paying your medical bills and lost wages. At Bednarz & Bednarz, our Nashville personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover adequate compensation. To arrange your free consultation or to learn more, contact us online or by calling (615) 623-8789 at your earliest convenience.
