5 Sneaky Tricks Used By Insurance Adjusters To Reduce Your Atlanta Car Accident Settlement
1. Reassigning Your Claim: You call your insurance adjuster only to find out that he's no longer assigned to your case. He gives you the number of your new adjuster, who just happens to be on vacation that week. When you finally speak to the adjuster, he's missing some paperwork and you have to start your claim from scratch. What can you do?
Keep records of all your conversations and ask to have any agreements put in writing. This way, when the second adjuster questions your right to a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop, you can show him that the insurance company had already promised coverage.
2. Changing the shape of the money: You are seeking the compensation you are owed for your medical bills, property damage and lost wages. But, the adjuster will try to fill your head with "fabulous prizes." Instead of saying, "We don't feel like paying you $5,000 for your hospital bills", he may say, "Here is $2,500 - enough money to take your family to Disney World." Doesn't that sound more tempting?
Before accepting any offer from the insurance company, discuss your claim with an Atlanta car crash lawyer. Many Georgia personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, and they'll be able to tell you if a settlement offer is fair at no charge.
3. Calling at inconvenient times: What is more inconvenient than a phone call at 7:30 a.m. just as you are about to leave for work or are getting ready to take the children to school? The insurance adjuster is hoping to catch you when you have limited time, so you will make a snap decision just to get them off the phone.
Ask the adjuster to call back at a designated time. You could even try calling them back at 4:45 p.m. on Friday. They may agree to your requests in order to get you off the phone.
4. Delaying your claim until the holiday season: During the holiday season, most people would like a little extra money for gifts or celebrations. Insurance companies know this and will call with an offer during the holiday shopping season.
Don't get sucked in with visions of sugarplums. Remember the big picture; this is money you are owed.
5. Silence: Adjusters often give an offer and then hit the mute button. Why? They are waiting to hear what you say.
Tell them thank you and you will need to discuss the offer with your Atlanta car crash lawyer. Tell them your lawyer will call with an answer.
Tired of dealing with insurance agents and their tricks? Contact Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656. We'll be happy to schedule a free meeting to discuss your Georgia injury claim.
Learn more common mistakes made by Georgia accident victims in our free book, 10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case.
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