We often get clients into our office who have attempted to negotiate their case directly with the insurance company. They have come to us usually to see if they are being treated fairly or getting a raw deal. Some of the things we hear from them are unbelievable.
Ways The Insurance Company Will Mislead You
For example, we have heard from many that they are told by the insurance company representative that their insurance company does not pay for pain and suffering. We have heard stories where insurance adjusters have said they will not pay for physical therapy or chiropractic treatment. These things are all untrue.
One case, we actually had a client tell us the insurance company just after the accident said we will offer a small sum. The client told the insurance company that he was hurt and needed to go to the doctor. The insurance company said that is what the money is for to go to the doctor. This is again untrue. If our client had taken the offer at that time, he would have had to pay thousands of dollars out of his own pocket for his treatment. Once you sign the release and agree to a settlement, the insurance company owes you nothing more.
Other Ways Insurance Companies Trick You
Also, if you have paid for medical coverage through your own health insurance, you may owe your health insurance company reimbursement from an injury settlement. Many people are unaware of this. Say for example, your health insurer is owed $5000.00 for medical bills it paid on your behalf. If the insurance company offers you $5000.00 to settle the case, theoretically you have settled your case for $0.00 as you will have to repay the entire $5000.00 to the health insurer. The car insurance company will not tell you this.
So the chief danger in negotiating your own case is not knowing what you do not know. You are in a world where you are not familiar with the rules and the other side is. You need to know what damages you can claim and be compensated for, the total medical bills you have, and does your health insurer have a right to subrogation as just a few examples.
