After someone experiences a car accident in California, they have the option of filing a claim against the at-fault driver or their insurance company. When dealing with the latter, it’s important to know that they are not your friend.
Requesting medical records unrelated to your accident
As part of your car insurance claim, you have to send copies of your medical records to prove that the car accident caused a personal injury. However, sometimes, the insurer will request additional medical records unrelated to your accident. When this happens, it shows that the company doesn’t believe your injuries occurred in the accident.
Asking for a statement
Car insurance companies might ask you for specific details about the car accident. You’re under no obligation to do that. You should have your guard up when they do this because they’re looking for a way to use your words against you and make it seems like the collision was your fault.
Making a lowball settlement offer
One of the most common tactics of insurance companies is to make a lowball settlement offer to an injured party who files a claim. They try to take advantage of the victim and try to get them to accept the lowest possible amount to cover their medical expenses, car repairs and other damages. Sadly, many people fall for it and end up with a settlement that’s far less than what they deserve in their case.
Delaying your claim
Insurance companies can sometimes delay processing claims from individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents. When you’re told your claim will be complete by a certain date but you don’t receive it and the insurer refuses to answer your questions, it should be taken as a red flag.
Denying your claim
While there might be legitimate reasons to deny a claim, if yours is legitimate, you have a right to recover damages. If your claim is denied for no good reason, it warrants investigating the situation.