After an accident, you naturally expect the other party’s insurance company to treat you fairly. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters work for a corporation whose primary goal is to protect its bottom line—not to look out for your well-being.
Even well-meaning statements can accidentally jeopardize your personal injury claim. To protect your rights, avoid these three common mistakes when dealing with insurance companies:
1. Giving a Recorded Statement Too Soon
An adjuster may call you shortly after the accident, acting friendly and asking for a “recorded statement to clear things up.” You are under no legal obligation to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company without an attorney present. Adjusters are trained to ask trick questions designed to get you to admit partial fault or downplay your injuries.
2. Accepting the First Quick Settlement Offer
If an insurance company quickly offers you a check, it is usually a red flag. That first offer is almost always a lowball figure meant to close your file cheaply before you realize the true extent of your injuries or long-term medical needs. Once you sign a release, you cannot ask for more money later—even if your medical bills skyrocket. Always have an experienced personal injury attorney evaluate any offer.
3. Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
In Texas, there is a strict statute of limitations for personal injury cases. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. While two years might sound like plenty of time, evidence disappears quickly, witnesses forget details, and building a bulletproof case takes time. Waiting until the last minute can severely harm your chances of recovery.
Let PM Law Fight For You
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working against you from day one. You deserve someone in your corner with equal muscle. At PM Law, we know their tactics, and we don’t back down.
Get a trusted advocate on your side. Call PM Law today for a free case evaluation.